Faculty Innovator Showcase
Spotlighting Breakthroughs. Creating Connections.
The Faculty Innovator Showcase is a signature annual event that celebrates and elevates the groundbreaking work of Tennessee Tech researchers. Hosted by the Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship and powered by the Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC), the Showcase brings together campus innovators, industry professionals, government partners, and regional stakeholders for a day of discovery, networking, and opportunity.
This is more than a poster session — it’s a stage for ideas that shape our economy and society.
Why Participate?
Whether you're developing a new technology, exploring commercialization pathways, or simply interested in sharing your work with a wider audience, the Faculty Innovator Showcase is your chance to:
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Gain Exposure: Present your innovation to decision-makers from industry, government, and economic development sectors.
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Spark New Collaborations: Build relationships with potential research, funding, and licensing partners.
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Receive a $1,000 Stipend: Faculty presenters receive a non-instructional stipend as recognition for their participation.
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Support Your Commercialization Journey: Showcase participation often aligns with TTAC Proof of Concept grant submissions, invention disclosures, and patenting milestones.
Who Should Attend?
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Faculty Innovators across all disciplines — from engineering and science to the arts and humanities.
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Students interested in research, entrepreneurship, or career pathways in innovation.
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Industry and Government Leaders looking to connect with new technologies, university talent, and applied research.
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Economic Development Professionals focused on tech-based growth and partnerships.
This is an open-door opportunity to see what’s next at Tennessee Tech — and be a part
of it.
How to Get Involved
Participation is open to any full-time faculty or staff member with an innovative project, research application, or early-stage invention. Projects need not be patented to qualify. If you’re interested in showcasing your work, contact Michael Aikens (maikens@tntech.edu) to express interest.
A registration form and event date will be announced in early Spring. Stay tuned via Tech Times and our website
Past Highlights
Previous showcases have featured inventions in clean energy, AI and data science applications, assistive technologies, sustainable agriculture, education innovations, and more. Presenters have gone on to secure grants, licensing deals, and strategic partnerships — proving the Showcase is more than an event, it’s a launchpad.
View the 2025 Showcase Gallery
Questions?
Want to know if your project is a fit? Curious how to prepare your display or presentation? We’re here to help you shine. Reach out to Michael Aikens at maikens@tntech.edu to learn more.