Posted: October 19, 2009

Catalyzing tech transfer and start-up financing for new technologies program on October 29 in Chicago

(Nanowerk News) The Midwest Research University Network (MRUN), Illinois Business & Investors Forum (ILBIF), Midwest Co-Investment Network and the Illinois Technology Association (ITA) are joining forces to host a program designed to stimulate investment in technology companies.
CAT TEC II: Catalyzing Tech Transfer and Startup Financing, to be held on October 29, 2009, is a full-day seminar focused on bringing technology transfer professionals together with early stage investors while exploring one of the most difficult aspects of investing -- due diligence.
"There are some amazing technologies coming out of the Midwest," said Dennis Serio, President, ILBIF, "We are excited to partner with organizations who support the community to connect the dots and educate a new class of individuals on what it takes to be a supporter of an early-stage company."
Part one of this dynamic interactive workshop will feature a presentation on university trends and practices in creating startups by Bob Okabe, an angel investor and co-founder of RPX Group. Part two of the day will be an advanced, hands-on workshop on due diligence with John May, Chairman Emeritus of the Angel Capital Association and known as the 'father of angel networks.' The day will end with a fast pitch session including selected early stage companies from around the Midwest.
"Another great opportunity we've been able to wrap into the agenda is an hour of Fast Pitch presentations which will give attendees an immediate opportunity to apply what they have learned while meeting some exciting new emerging companies," added Allen Dines, MRUN President. "We've selected early stage CEOs who will present highlights of their companies and technologies."
About MRUN
MRUN was established in 2002 as an alliance of university business development professionals dedicated to facilitating growth of technology spinout companies through start-up formation. MRUN is built around the idea that regional cooperation in new business formation can foster commercialization of university research. As a region, the Midwest accounts for about 25% of total U.S. academic R&D. Many Midwest universities are among the leading research institutions nationally. MRUN members include research institutions and medical centers from eight Midwest states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.
About the ILBIF
The Illinois Business & Investor Forum (ILBIF) acts an umbrella group for angel investors throughout the Midwest. Its purpose is to create an interactive meeting showcasing early stage companies, entrepreneurs, and intellectual property from universities and corporations in the Midwest. The presenters are seeking early stage investment capital. ILBIF's goal is to provide a forum that connects great technologies with significant commercial potential with active investors and/or investment groups. The Forum is a virtual meeting with multiple venues, which is made possible through collaborative communication systems.
About the Midwest Co-Investment Network
The Midwest Co-Investment Network (MIN) was created by the Wisconsin Angel Network and the Illinois Business and Investors Forum to provide an easy way for investors to co-invest in deals together. By establishing and enhancing relationships between investors and providing the infrastructure, the MIN is an impetus for deal sharing.
About the ITA
The Illinois Technology Association (ITA) represents the interests of a diverse membership of more than 650 companies in Illinois that create, deploy and utilize information technology as a core part of their organization. By connecting members with industry peers and participants, providing the latest strategic information, market research and critical market insight and by promoting key thought leaders to raise visibility and gain a greater market awareness and presence, ITA is focused on building and developing the Illinois technology community through collaboration.
Source: Illinois Technology Association