Research Commercialization

JMU Becomes First R2 University in VIPC's Lab-to-Launch Program

Richmond, Va. – October 07, 2026 -- James Madison University has become Virginia's first R2 research university to join the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation's Lab-to-Launch initiative, extending a statewide technology-transfer program beyond its original six R1 universities. JMU President Jim Schmidt and VIPC President and CEO Joe Benevento signed a ceremonial Memorandum of Understanding in Richmond on October 6.

JMU gains access to Virginia's first standardized Fast-Track License

Through Lab-to-Launch, JMU can now use Virginia's first-ever Fast-Track License, a standardized agreement designed to cut the cost and time required for inventors to license university-held intellectual property and spin out startups. The license is backed by VIPC's new Lab-to-Launch grant program.

Clarkson University Wins New Carnegie Sustainability Classification

Potsdam, N.Y. – September 22, 2026 -- Clarkson University has become one of only 14 institutions nationwide to earn the newly created Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability, following its participation in the 2025 pilot program that shaped the classification's framework.

Fourteen institutions defined the pilot cohort nationwide

Clarkson helped design the review process used to evaluate the classification, which assesses sustainability integration across research, education, community engagement and campus operations. The 14 pilot institutions will form the inaugural classified cohort, to be formally announced in June 2027, with the designation valid through 2033.