Empowering regions to bridge the gap between groundbreaking ideas and real-world impact.

In Partnership with the National Science Foundation.
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Tough Tech

•  /tʌf tɛk/ 

Tough Tech is transformational technology that solves the world’s most important challenges through the convergence of breakthrough science, engineering, and entrepreneurship.

ignited by people
Hands-On, Tailored Support
Toolkits
Build smarter with field-tested frameworks and bold ideas.
Connections
Tap peers, startups, and funders to bring your strategy to life.
On-Demand Support
Access experienced practitioners exactly when you need them.
The Team Behind the Platform
Core Team
Pat
Pat
Grospiron
Executive Director
bio
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The Builder Platform
Emily
Emily
Knight
President
bio
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The Engine
Ben
Ben
Downing
Chief Growth Officer
bio
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The Engine
Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Patterson
Platform Manager
bio
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The Builder Platform
Ian
Ian
Johnston
PhD
VP of Tech Translation & Ecosystem Development
bio
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The Builder Platform
Diana
Diana
Kamau
Program Coordinator
bio
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The Builder Platform
Advisors
Amy
Amy
Beaird
PhD
Co-Founder
bio
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Ecosystem Edge
Ryan
Ryan
Donahue
Consultant
bio
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RM Donahue Consulting
Francie
Francie
Genz
CEO
bio
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Institute for Networked Communities
Heath
Heath
Naquin
Managing Partner, Co-Founder
bio
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International Innovation Associates
Arthur
Arthur
R. Smith
Consultant & Chief Content Officer
bio
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Venn Collaborative
Eliseo
Eliseo
Velasquez
Managing Partner, Co-Founder
bio
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International Innovation Associates
Jim
Jim
Woodell
PhD
Founder, Principal & CEO
bio
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Venn Collaborative
Kirsten
Kirsten
Yates
Communications Strategist
bio
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The Builder Platform
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