Office of Technology Partnerships

Turning Momentum into Evidence

As a venture becomes more defined, the questions become more specific: Can it work? Does the market want it? Is the timing right? What needs to be in place before moving forward?

This phase often centers on reducing uncertainty. EPIC’s Validation Stage resources help founders build confidence through proof-of-concept planning, commercialization strategy, mentorship, and funding-related guidance that support more informed next steps.

Common Needs at This Stage

Companies in this phase are often:

• Testing whether a technology or solution is commercially viable
• Exploring proof-of-concept or early prototype development
• Clarifying intellectual property protection or commercialization strategy
• Looking for mentorship before fundraising or incorporation
• Evaluating non-dilutive funding pathways such as SBIR/STTR

Validation Resources and Strategic Support

As a venture becomes more defined, support often shifts toward proof-of-concept planning, commercialization strategy, mentorship, and early funding pathways that help reduce uncertainty and strengthen next steps.

• Proof of Concept Studies

  Proof of concept work helps founders test whether a concept, technology, or solution can perform as intended before moving into broader commercialization or company-building.

  For research-driven ventures in particular, this phase can be critical for identifying technical feasibility, clarifying what still needs to be validated, and generating the evidence needed to support future decisions around product development, partnerships, or funding.

• Intellectual Property Strategy

  As an idea begins to mature, intellectual property strategy becomes increasingly important.

  At this stage, founders may need to better understand how patents, disclosures, licensing pathways, or other forms of protection can support commercialization goals and strengthen the long-term value of the venture. EPIC can help connect founders to the right resources and conversations to begin aligning innovation with commercialization strategy.

  Explore UCR commercialization resources by clicking here.

• Company Formation and Team Readiness

  As ventures move from concept to execution, founders often begin thinking more seriously about the operational side of building a company.

  That may include early questions around incorporation, defining team roles, identifying gaps in expertise, and understanding what needs to be in place before pursuing pilots, fundraising, or customer acquisition. This phase is often less about having every answer - and more about building enough structure to move forward strategically.

• Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs)

  EPIC’s Entrepreneurs-in-Residence provide one-on-one strategic guidance from experienced founders, operators, investors, and industry leaders who understand what it takes to move from early traction into real venture development.

  At the validation stage, that support can be especially valuable for pressure-testing assumptions, refining business direction, thinking through commercialization pathways, and gaining perspective on what needs to happen next.

  Meet our Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and Mentors by clicking here.

• Funding Support and Early Capital Readiness

  As a company begins to validate its opportunity, founders often need more visibility into the funding landscape.

  This can include guidance around non-dilutive funding, grant readiness, investor preparedness, or identifying which capital pathways may make the most sense based on the maturity of the technology or business. The goal at this stage is not simply raising money - it is understanding what kind of funding is appropriate, and when.

• SBIR/STTR Support

  For eligible startups pursuing federal non-dilutive funding, SBIR/STTR can be an important part of the validation journey.

  EPIC works alongside UCR’s SBIR/STTR support ecosystem to help founders better understand proposal strategy, commercialization planning, team-building considerations, and how federal funding can support technical development and early business growth.

  Learn about our SBIR office and SBIR/STTR support by clicking here.

• Strategic Guidance Beyond Formal Programs

  Not every founder enters this phase through a single program or funding pathway. In many cases, validation is a mix of conversations, testing, mentorship, and learning what still needs to be proven before moving forward.

  In addition to formal resources, EPIC can help founders identify the most relevant next step, connect to mentors and commercialization support, and navigate the transition between early discovery and more structured venture development.