HBCU Technology Transfer Symposium Empowers Innovation, Economic Development

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (April 4, 2025) – Representatives from nearly a dozen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) recently visited North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s campus to brainstorm ways to advance technology transfer and commercialization

N.C. A&T, The Commercializer, LLC, and the 1890 Universities Foundation co-hosted the inaugural HBCU Technology Transfer (T2) Symposium, bringing together thought leaders, researchers and industry experts to explore ways to foster innovation and boost technology transfer and commercialization capabilities.

Sponsored by Microsoft, this event drew more than 30 participants who worked together to identify strategies addressing the unique challenges HBCUs face in technology transfer, building stronger innovation ecosystems across various sectors, and creating opportunities for economic development.

The symposium featured an expert panel discussion with Abdellah Ahmidouch, Ph.D., dean of A&T’s College of Science and Technology; Joey Cheek, executive vice president of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce; Geoffrey Foster ’90,‘96, adjunct professor in A&T’s Department of Applied Engineering Technology and CEO of Core Molding Corp.; Stephanie Luster-Teasley Pass ‘96, Ph.D., dean of A&T’s College of Engineering; Tim Minor, A&T’s vice chancellor for Strategic Partnerships and Economic Development; Hossein Sarrafzadeh, Ph.D., distinguished professor and director of A&T’s Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity; Doug Speight, CEO of AxNano; and Stephen Susalka, CEO of AUTM.

Key discussions included bridging the gap between research and real-world impact, strengthening institutional infrastructure, and leveraging research, intellectual property protection, and commercialization to empower communities.

Participants and panelists agreed this inaugural event is a step toward a future where HBCUs lead in technology transfer and drive economic impact.