our services

Build what's next,
together.

The Builder Platform helps turn ideas into impact with the resources, connections and support innovation ecosystem builders need to thrive.
Making Tough Tech even tougher, one resource at a time.
Build
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Access a digital library of tested tools and resources.
Connect
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Join a national learning network of ecosystem builders.
Accelerate
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Fast-track impact through on-demand advisory support.
Hands-on, Tailored Support
Use-Inspired Research
Translation & Commercialization
Workforce Development
Capital + Technical Assistance
Public Policy
Infrastructure
Governance + Regional Engagement
Turn Research Into Real-World Impact
Empower researchers to move ideas from the lab to the marketplace.
Demystify translation for innovators (Blueprint) and Principal Investigators (Whiteboard)
Develop a Use-Inspired Research Culture
Connect Academic Research to Market Needs
Launch and Scale Market-Ready Technology Solutions
Expert guidance to get your ideas into the hands of users and customers.
Tech transfer and IP partnership agreements
Non-dilutive funding and investment support
Go-to-market pathways
Build the Workforce of the Future
Design and grow talent pathways and partnerships to meet evolving industry needs.
Identify labor market constraints
Enduring Industry partner engagement
Workforce systems alignment
Unlock Capital and Startup Support
Access the funding, networks and tools to grow your ecosystem.
Capital stack landscape assessments
Strategic matching to investor network
Strengthen regional technical assistance for startups
Navigate Policy and Secure Public Funding
Win support, influence policy and scale with public backing.
Public Affairs 101: Four-week course to master government engagement
Local, state and federal engagement and funding strategies
Regulatory navigation
Build a Thriving Ecosystem
Create the labs, spaces and systems that support infrastructure at every stage.
Insights on building labs and connected testbeds
Public sector engagement
Growth from launch to scale
Power Regional Collaboration and Leadership
Consortia and governance management Financial Sustainability strategies
Identify labor market constraints
Enduring Industry partner engagement
Hands-on, Tailored Support
Use-Inspired Research
Turn Research Into Real-World Impact
Empower researchers to move ideas from the lab to the marketplace.
Demystify translation for innovators (Blueprint) and Principal Investigators (Whiteboard)
Develop a Use-Inspired Research Culture
Connect Academic Research to Market Needs
Translation & Commercialization
Launch and Scale Market-Ready Technology Solutions
Expert guidance to get your ideas into the hands of users and customers.
Tech transfer and IP partnership agreements
Non-dilutive funding and investment support
Go-to-market pathways
Workforce Development
Build the Workforce of the Future
Design and grow talent pathways and partnerships to meet evolving industry needs.
Identify labor market constraints
Enduring Industry partner engagement
Workforce systems alignment
Capital + Technical Assistance
Unlock Capital and Startup Support
Access the funding, networks and tools to grow your ecosystem.
Capital stack landscape assessments
Strategic matching to investor network
Strengthen regional technical assistance for startups
Public Policy
Navigate Policy and Secure Public Funding
Win support, influence policy and scale with public backing.
Public Affairs 101: Four-week course to master government engagement
Local, state and federal engagement and funding strategies
Regulatory navigation
Infrastructure
Build a Thriving Ecosystem
Create the labs, spaces and systems that support infrastructure at every stage.
Insights on building labs and connected testbeds
Public sector engagement
Growth from launch to scale
Governance + Regional Engagement
Power Regional Collaboration and Leadership
Consortia and governance management Financial Sustainability strategies
Identify labor market constraints
Enduring Industry partner engagement
FAQs
What is The Builder Platform?
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The Builder Platform is a comprehensive support system designed to empower regional innovation ecosystems supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program. Our mission is to empower regional Tough Tech ecosystems with the tools, people and support to scale lasting impact. We provide intentional, customizable support to NSF Engines, facilitating growth through structured support for talent, advanced technologies, and resilient ecosystems.
Who can benefit from The Builder Platform?
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Our platform serves a wide range of ecosystem builders within regional Tough Tech innovation ecosystems, including startups, researchers, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and community organizations.
Is there a cost to join or use The Builder Platform?
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Access to The Builder Platform is at no cost for NSF Regional Innovation Engines. If you are interested in bringing the platform to your region or want to fund a cohort of ecosystem builders, contact us to learn more.
How is The Builder Platform funded?
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The Builder Platform is currently supported by investments from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and powered by The Engine, a nonprofit incubator and accelerator built by MIT.
How does The Builder Platform support innovation ecosystems?
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We offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each innovation ecosystem, including access to resources, mentorship, and programs.
How can I stay updated on The Builder Platform's initiatives and opportunities?
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Sign up to stay in touch, follow The Engine on social media, and regularly visit our website for the latest news, updates, and opportunities to engage with our platform and community.
How do I become a partner at The Builder Platform?
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Whether you're looking to contribute your expertise, seek support for your innovation project, or partner with us to enhance your region's innovation ecosystem, we welcome you to join our community. Visit our website's "Contact Us" section for more information on how to connect with us.
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We exist to empower ecosystem builders to unlock the full potential of Tough Tech, ensuring every innovation is supported by a thriving ecosystem.
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