i2I Faculty Innovation Fellows Program
Overview
The i2I Faculty Innovation Fellows Program is a one-week intensive designed for faculty members who are driving innovation beyond the university. Recognizing the unique role faculty play as boundary spanners, the program equips fellows to connect research, industry, community partners, funders, and trainees to create impact. Through engagement with national networks and leading commercialization expertise, fellows explore multiple pathways to impact through the entrepreneurial mindsets of Translate, Champion, and Venture.
- Applications Open Nov. 1, 2026
- 1 Week | In Person
- Program Runs May 3 - May 7, 2027
- Hosted at Simon Fraser university | VANCOUVER, B.c.
i2I Faculty Innovation Fellows Learning Outcomes:
Research-to-Impact Strategy
Develop strategy to move research from lab to market
Market Opportunity Assessment
Prioritize market opportunities
Business Model Design
Develop and evaluate business models for research-based innovation
Value Proposition Development
Articulate a compelling value proposition
Innovation Leadership & Mindset
Shape an innovation strategy and mindset that drives translational impact
Building Research Translation Skills
Bring translational skills back to your lab
Financial Decision-Making
Build financial literacy skills relevant to entrepreneurship and commercialization
Investor & Partner Engagement
Build Confidence in pitching to investors and partners
IP & Funding Strategy
Navigate IP & Funding Strategies
National Innovation Network
Join a national network of academics innovators from across Canada
Eligibility
The i2I Faculty Innovation Fellows Program is open to full-time faculty members and faculty clinicians at Canadian universities and research institutes with a developed innovation idea. FIFP is designed as a high-touch, in-person program, with limited space. Our cohort selection balances geography (to the host location), institutional representation, career stage and research disciplines.
If you are unsure about whether this program is the right fit, please reach out to our team at i2i_info@sfu.ca and we can connect you with our program faculty leads.
DR. Shine (Xu) Zhang
Canada Research Chair in Healthy Environments and Communities, Cape Breton University
i2I Faculty Innovation Fellows Program Alum
“The program is exceptionally well designed and highly engaging. Through interactive case studies and discussions, it provides practical knowledge covering the entire innovation journey, from identifying market opportunities and developing business models to storytelling and financial literacy. The instructors combined deep expertise in both science and entrepreneurship, making the concepts highly relevant to academic researchers. The collaborative learning environment and interactions with faculty from across Canada were among the most valuable aspects of the program. I would highly recommend the program to researchers interested in translating their discoveries into societal and economic impact.”
Program Fees
For successful applicants, program and conference centre fees (including meals) are covered for the duration of the program. Overnight accommodation is provided for out-of-town participants.
FAQ
Am I eligible for the program?
You are eligible for the program if you are currently a full-time faculty member or faculty clinician at a Canadian university or Research Institute with a developed innovation idea.
Note: Location to in-person program may impact admission.
Is the program full-time?
Yes. The FIFP is a one-week intensive program, and participants are expected to attend all scheduled activities throughout the week.
Do I need to travel to participate in the program?
Yes. The FIFP is offered in person only. The program is held once a year in early May and alternates between Simon Fraser University and Queen’s University.
Note: The 2027 program will be held at Simon Fraser University.
Is funding available? Are travel expenses covered?
Participants admitted to the program receive a fully sponsored seat. Travel expenses may also be covered, subject to specific eligibility criteria and program guidelines.
Do I need approval from my department or institution to attend the program. Can you provide an official letter of acceptance?
Yes. Admitted participants will receive an official letter of acceptance that can be shared with their department or institution.
Note: Please ensure that you have obtained all necessary approvals before booking any travel arrangements.
Will you arrange my transportation and accommodation?
The program team will not book your airfare or train ticket. However, accommodation will be arranged on your behalf at our partner hotel.
Will I retain ownership of my intellectual property?
Yes. We do not claim any ownership or rights over your intellectual property. All IP will be governed by the standard policies of your home academic institution or company.