ABOUT THE TULANE INNOVATION INSTITUTE
CULTURE BUILDING | INNOVATION BUILDING | STARTUP BUILDING

In the summer of 2022, the Tulane Innovation Institute opened its doors in downtown New Orleans as a presidential initiative launched by Tulane President Michael A. Fitts. With philanthropic support from the Tulane Innovation & Entrepreneurship (TIE) Council, the Institute was established to promote innovation and entrepreneurship at Tulane and across the region by supporting students, faculty, staff, and community members in developing new ideas, technologies, and ventures.

Kimberly Gramm, MBA, PhD, was named the inaugural David and Marion Mussafer Chief Innovation and Entrepreneurship Officer to lead the Institute. Under her leadership, the team is helping aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators move from idea to market through targeted programs and resources, including education, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

In collaboration with Tulane researchers, the Institute also supports the commercialization of university discoveries by facilitating patent applications, exploring licensing options, and helping launch university spin-out companies.

In addition, the team works with external industry partners and entrepreneurial support networks to expand opportunities for innovators to grow and scale their ideas.