Panel Sessions

It Takes More than Just a Good Idea to Commercialize Viable Nanotech Inventions
April 19, 9:30a.m.

A panel of experienced nanotech researchers/inventors will discuss what it takes to commercialize viable nanotechnology inventions. Simply having a good idea is not enough -- good inventions, good IP protection, and a sound business plan are all needed to launch a successful company. This panel will include Dr. Erik H. Erbe, Chief Scientific Officer, Orthovita, Inc., Dr. Salvatore Pace, Chief Technology Officer, NanoSelect, Inc., and Dr. Alan Seadler, President and CEO, Crystalplex. Moderating this session will be John Caldwell, a partner with the IP law firm Woodcock Washburn, LLP, Philadelphia

Europe, Asia and Canada are employing novel approaches to developing their nanotechnology sectors – approaches not used in the U.S. – some of them with remarkable early success. Whether these same approaches can work here is not yet clear. But the level of financial investment and sheer volume of nano activity in other parts of the world merit serious consideration and discussion. Join a panel of nano business leaders from the Ontario, Canada, France, Germany and Japan for an exploration of nanotechnology around the globe.

Essential for seed stage and early stage companies, venture funding and other private investments are important in all phases of the growth pipeline. A panel of venture capitalists and experts in entrepreneurial development will discuss the essentials for building a great business - the elements needed to effectively obtain venture capital and attract key strategic alliances. Panelists will share their own criteria for adding companies to their portfolios.

Nanomaterials: Transforming Traditional Products
April 20, 9:30a.m.

Research scientists from Alcoa, Bayer MaterialScience, Kennametal, PPG and U.S. Steel will discuss the science and application of materials at the nanoscale, as well as trends in the business of materials science at the nanoscale as it pertains to their respective industries. Moderator: Robert Shull, National Institutes of Standards and Technology

Huge numbers of nanotech patents are being filed and granted in the U.S. and abroad, creating “patent thickets” in some sectors of nanotechnology where it is difficult to launch a product. Given this fragmented IP landscape and a limited start-up budget, what strategies are generating the biggest valuations for nanotech companies today? This panel will present a range of perspectives from industry experts on strategies that can be employed today to generate greater return on nanotech IP investments.

• Understanding the nanotech IP landscape
• Filing patents where it counts
• Trade secrets v. patenting for nanotech
• Monitoring patent activity of competitors - why it helps
• Aligning patent claim strategy and business objectives