It was unanimous, good collaboration begins not with money, an iron-clad agreement, a timeline or extensive research. It begins by developing a good fundamental relationship with a potential partner. This was one of many points bantered about by faculty and business panelists at Dickinson College, the site of ITN’s “Plug Into the Private Sector” event.

During the course of the evening’s discussion, the group shared their strategy for identifying potential partners. Brian McNew, CEO of EarthNet Energy, found his faculty partner by reaching out to his alma mater, Shippensburg University. McNew engaged one of the two faculty he’s working with as a result of his interaction with the University.

Matt Steiman of Dickinson College and Dr. Sairam of Penn State Harrisburg both agreed that attending national and regional industry meetings is the best way to make initial contact with potential partners. Both stressed patience and realistic expectations, in addition to, keeping in touch and nurturing the relationship. When the right opportunity presents itself, faculty then have a foundation from which to build and introduce a project.

One passionate point of disagreement across campuses is whether to share or not to share information. Hans Pfister, of Dickinson College, encouraged attendees to get their ideas out of their desks and onto the table. If faculty can test a concept with a trusted private sector partner “everyone wins,” according to Pfister. His track record supports the notion that business partners provide faculty and students with the opportunity to gain valuable insight, market input, and the ability to tweak before attempting commercialization.

Dr. Sairam of Penn State Harrisburg shared his view on collaboration with large, national entities. His private sector and start-up background has aided his negotiations with corporate partners. Defining objectives, signing non disclosures, and “sticking within the parameters of the agreement” are all part of keeping things on track in big business deals.

Despite the high powered brain cells and advanced degrees swirling the room, it was clear that all the research, published materials, and initials behind a name won’t help build successful collaborative relationships without the basic skills of flexibility, outreach, and good old-fashioned communication.

Visit the event photo gallery here: http://www.innovationtransfernetwork.org/events/photo-gallery

View the full event video: http://www.youtube.com/jhammaker09