McMaster researchers disclose more than +100 inventions and creative works to the McMaster Industry Liaison Office (MILO) every year. Advisors at MILO work with these inventors and creators to file patents or other IP protection, evaluate market opportunities, and identify potential licensees or investors to move these technologies forward. Our goal is to support McMaster researchers in licensing these inventions to existing companies or supporting the creation of startup companies to create social and economic benefit for all Canadians.
Companies looking for new innovations, or investors and entrepreneurs looking for startup opportunities, can search for available technologies. For inquiries, please email Glen Crossley, Associate Director, Business Development and Intellectual Property.
McMaster has a number of programs that support entrepreneurs and startups, including the McMaster Seed Fund (MSF) which has a mandate to create and launch successful research and IP-based companies from the University and its affiliated hospitals. Please email Leigh Wilson, Associate Director, New Ventures to discuss further.
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McMaster Seed Fund (MSF) Learn more about MSF
The McMaster Seed Fund is an early-stage investment vehicle designed to foster innovative startup companies from McMaster research that have the potential for significant economic and/or societal impact in the Hamilton region and beyond.
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LevelUp Learn more about LevelUp
LevelUp is dedicated incubator space at McMaster Innovation Park designed to support startups as they grow and scale. Established by the VPR office, this Made-at-Mac initiative offers a collaborative environment to help local innovators thrive.
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Whelen Fellowship Learn more about the Whelen Fellowship
Established in 2023, the John Whelen Family Innovation Advancement Fellowship Fund connects McMaster students with startup companies to foster entrepreneurial skill development while helping ventures bring their innovations closer to market.
Applications are now open for the 2025–2026 Fellowship. McMaster graduate students and postdocs with a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship are encouraged to apply.
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Our Startups Browse the startups list
From finding better ways to detect cancer to manufacturing the next smart car and creating technologies for a more inclusive society, McMaster innovators are focused on finding solutions that matter to people and the planet.
