Entrepreneurs
Many technology entrepreneurs achieve personal satisfaction just by successfully demonstrating their technology. Starting and running an actual business to commercialize the technology may not be of personal interest, even if the technology addresses an important market need.
This is seen in the classic serial inventor who has received many grants to develop technology, but has yet to take any technology beyond the demonstration phase.
If the entrepreneur does make the commitment to commercialize the technology, he or she often lacks resources, including capital, time and, most importantly, business experience.
The Entrepreneurial Valley of Death
We often use the “Entrepreneurial Valley of Death” (above) to represent the challenge of the entrepreneurial effort. The blue line graphically represents the highs and lows of cash flow during commercialization of new technologies.
CTP works with its clients to cross the Entrepreneurial Valley of Death by helping them fill gaps in the new company's management and business model. We work in partnerships and form alliances to improve results, expand resources and/or speed the process.
CTP's Entrepreneurial Services
CTT staff can help with strategy, business plans, financial matters, market development, technology test plans, protection of intellectual property, licensing, and exit options. In some instances, a CTP staff member will sit on the Board of Directors of a client's company. Clients are also able tap into CTP network of commercial, government, legal, financial and scientific contacts around the world.
Along with our personal touch, CTP also helps to link its clients with state and regional development groups, like their local Small Business Development Center or SCORE office to provide counseling and assistance. Wisconsin's Department of Commerce also has many outstanding programs like the Early Planning Grant and Technology Assistance Grant that CTP can help with.
We are Entrepreneurs
How is CTP qualified to provide this help? Many of CTP's staff are seasoned entrepreneurial executives with hands-on experience in private industry. We have more than 100 years of combined expertise with technology, market development, intellectual property, finance and business management.