Representatives from over 40 research institutions gathered at The Ohio State University for COVERGENCE 2026, a summit of research institution gap fund and accelerator programs (GAP) to examine one of the key challenges in research commercialization: helping promising discoveries reach the marketplace.
“My hope individually is that everyone here can bring something of value back to their institution,” said Jacob Johnson, founder of innovosource.
Co-hosted by Ohio State and innovosource, the summit focused on gap funding, which helps researchers advance technologies that are not yet ready to attract private investment. Discussions covered proof-of-concept funding, research accelerators and venture development.
John M. Horack, vice president for research at Ohio State, delivered opening remarks emphasizing the role universities play in translating academic discoveries into meaningful outcomes beyond the classroom and laboratory.
“Our job is not only to take the knowledge that we generate and publish it but to turn it into social, economic, educational, and quality-of-life outcomes,” Horack said.
That emphasis on real-world impact reflects Ohio State’s broader priorities of advancing research, strengthening industry partnerships and contributing to economic development.
Johnson said the annual event moves between universities to highlight the work taking place on campuses and within their surrounding communities. This year’s gathering included participants from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, providing opportunities to exchange ideas and build relationships that support future collaboration.
“It allows us to have more candid conversations in forums like this,” Johnson said, emphasizing the trust that develops through those connections.
Sanjay Krishna, senior associate vice president for Innovation and Strategic Ventures at Ohio State, spoke about the university’s approach to supporting faculty entrepreneurship and translating research into practical applications.
“Ultimately, it starts with engaging your most critical asset, which is your faculty members,” Krishna said.
A professor of electrical and computer engineering and a faculty entrepreneur, Krishna shared how his experience developing technologies and launching a company has influenced his work at Ohio State. He outlined the university’s Innovation and Strategic Ventures structure, which includes technology licensing, venture development and translation, and innovation investment management.
Krishna emphasized that successful commercialization requires supporting entire research teams and connecting them with industry partners. He also encouraged participants to identify meaningful problems to solve, whether those challenges originate in university laboratories or emerge from industry needs.
“My job as the leader for Ohio State's Innovation and Strategic Ventures team is to remove friction,” Krishna said. “What can we do to make this happen?”