Who We Are

The quest for discovery at the University of Pittsburgh runs deep. Pitt innovators cured polio, created CPR and cultivated the field of organ transplantation, to name just a few of the university’s monumental contributions to the world.

Today’s Pitt innovators continue the relentless quest for reinvention across the spectrum of disciplines. Moreover, they are translating their discoveries into impactful products, services and companies at a record rate, making a difference in the lives of countless people.

Pitt’s success in powering invention and igniting progress is enabled by a growing and interconnected innovation ecosystem. At the center of this ecosystem is the Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (OIE) which inspires, educates and enables others to make an impact on society, improve the regional economy and transform their own careers.

The Innovation Institute, one of the four operating units of the OIE, protects and manages intellectual property generated by Pitt innovators. It also provides programs, services, and funding they need to assess the commercial potential of their innovation or big idea and accelerate on the path to market.

Coordinating with partners across the university, as well as external partners, the Innovation Institute then helps launch innovations into the world through the licensing of Pitt-developed technologies and the formation of startups.

The Innovation Institute is led by the Vice Chancellor for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Director, Evan Facher, PhD, MBA.