2024 NNCI Nanotechnology Entrepreneurship Challenge (NTEC)

The NSF-funded US National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NNCI) announces its 2024 Nanotechnology Entrepreneurship Challenge (NTEC).  NTEC fosters student-led entrepreneurship at NNCI-affiliated sites with an emphasis on developing nano-enabled solutions to global sustainability challenges. In consideration of the ongoing National Nanotechnology Challenge, Nano4EARTH, special consideration will be given to nano-enabled approaches to address global climate change.

Winning teams receive cash or in-kind support and mentorship to help develop their concept (up to $1,000 per team). Teams can also participate in the Virtual NTEC Accelerator Program to learn more about translating their nano-enabled innovation from the lab to society. This YouTube video includes additional info about NTEC and how to apply.

Student teams from RTNN universities (NC State, Duke, and UNC Chapel-Hill) are highly encouraged to contact RTNN leadership if they intend to apply and may receive guidance. Please email Phillip Strader (RTNN Program Manager) if you wish to apply at rtnanonetwork@ncsu.edu

Students interested in applying should return their completed applications by email to Matthew Hull (mahull@vt.edu) by NOON on February 11th, 2024 (National Inventor’s Day).  Questions can be routed to this same address.  We expect to notify awardees by March 4th.  

Please find below a summary that provides additional details and the application template.   

2024-NNCI-NTEC-Call-for-Proposals_0Download

In addition to this NTEC Challenge, students are also encouraged to consider the 7 week NTEC Accelerator (a 7week program for student teams seeking more help) and NTEC Showcase

NTEC Showcase (example videos and awards to top teams!)

The program concludes with a 1 hour showcase in May where attendees view 2 minute “lessons learned” videos prepared by NTEC awardees. Examples are shown below. The top 3 teams will be awarded. This year, those teams will receive additional funding to continue their work ($2500 for first, $1000 for second, and $500 for third).