Cancer and Developing Entrepreneurial Technologies (CADET)

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) proposes the Cancer and Developing Entrepreneurial Technologies (CADET) accredited certificate program for up to 13 graduate and post graduate trainees per year to address the gap between oncological discoveries and the commercialization of technologies that can improve patient outcomes. CADET proposes a value-added educational experience that integrates scientific research with entrepreneurial training to support the commercialization of cancer-based technologies. CADET programming will be primarily team based, led by seasoned instructors and entrepreneurship mentors with a range of relevant subject matter expertise, and focused on practical avenues to translate oncological discoveries into viable businesses. CADET’s investment in trainees includes the invaluable opportunity to travel to the Biotechnology Innovation Organization convention to share abstracts of their cancer-related technologies and chart next steps in their career journey alongside prominent experts and leaders. CADET objectives will be realized by three specific aims: Aim 1: Provide trainee researchers with an accredited certificate program to present principles of entrepreneurship alongside the cancer product development path in context of pressing needs in the oncology field. Trainees will be guided through the process of aligning cancer research with customer needs, interests, and specifications. Aim 2: Assign trainee teams to cancer-related technologies with IP potential and provide the option to request licensing rights. Teams will prepare competitive applications for the largest business plan competition in Arkansas and use their learnings to advance to the next steps for translating cancer-related technologies through integrated learning experiences. Trainees will travel to and either observe or participate in state-level startup competitions. Aim 3: Determine CADET outcomes through rigorous evaluation and iterate future programs in this project accordingly. Evaluation will encompass trainee experiences, program progress, and knowledge retention of business principles and translating cancer-based technologies. Trainee outcomes will be tracked to verify CADET’s effectiveness and alignment to deliver health and social benefits. Guided by a team of instructors, mentors, and cancer experts, CADET participants will have the unique opportunity for concentrated learning and career growth while accelerating the development and commercialization of new cancer technologies.