Applications are open for entrepreneurs to build startups based on University of Washington innovations.
Program description
What is the CASCADE program?
CASCADE is a new CoMotion program that matches experienced entrepreneurs with high technology readiness level UW innovations to accelerate startup creation. We seek applications from exceptional founders to launch startups based on these promising innovations.
Advance through the screening process, and you will meet one-on-one with the UW researchers behind a curated portfolio of UW innovations available for licensing. Together, you will assess the potential fit between your experience and an innovation. Once matched, you will have until the end of June 2027 to build a startup and execute an option to license the relevant IP. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to participate in CoMotion programs that will connect you with mentors and help you develop a go-to-market strategy and an investor-ready pitch. When the time is right, we will also connect you with early-stage investors in our network.
This is your chance to launch your next venture based on cutting-edge innovations coming out of the world-class UW research enterprise!
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 1, 2026
Overview
Who can apply?
We are looking for experienced entrepreneurs, founders and builders with technical and/or domain expertise in the innovation sector they select.
You are expected to take an option for the applicable UW IP and spin out a company by the end of the CASCADE program, which runs from mid-February to the end of June, 2027.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
What do I need to submit?
Complete the application form which asks about your experience as an entrepreneur, your sector expertise, and why you want to participate in CASCADE. We also ask for a link to an up to 3-minute self-introduction video, your LinkedIn profile, and a resume.
Applicants moving to the next stage of the selection process will be asked to provide additional materials.
THE INITIAL APPLICATION DEADLINE IS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2026
What is available?
CoMotion has curated a portfolio of highly promising UW innovations at the right technology readiness levels for becoming the foundations of new companies.
For the 2027 inaugural cohort, innovations in medical devices, hardware, clean tech, agentic AI, and health tech are available.
Timeline
Interested in CASCADE? Join our information session at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (online)
CoMotion staff members will hold a live virtual information session of the CASCADE program and answer audience questions. A Zoom link will be provided after registration.
FAQ
The deadline for applying to the program is Sunday, November 1, 2026. Fill out the application form and send us a link to an up to 3-minute introduction video, your LinkedIn profile and a resume.
As a participant, you will work alongside world-class researchers and build on innovations that have advanced to a high maturity stage through substantial UW investments. You will also gain access to CoMotion programs and mentors and become part of a community committed to helping you succeed.
Applicants must be available January 4 – 15, 2027 for online interviews. Candidates who move forward must also be available January 18 – 29, 2027 to participate in virtual matchmaking meetings with UW innovators.
The inaugural cohort will be required to attend an in-person, one-day orientation meeting at the UW Seattle campus during the week of February 16, 2027.
CASCADE runs from February 16 to June 30, 2027. Over this period, participants will work on building their startup, optionally participate in CoMotion programs, regularly interact with assigned mentors that will help them move forward, and meet with CoMotion Leadership, culminating in executing an option to license.
CoMotion partners with the University of Washington community on their innovation journey, providing tools, connections, and acumen to transform ideas into economic and societal impact. CoMotion and its predecessors have helped launch 308 spinoffs built on foundational UW IP. These startups have gone on to raise $1.8 billion in capital over the past 5 years alone; 133 remain active today.
Please join us for a live online information session from 11 a.m.– 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, or contact us at [email protected].
Ken Myer mentoring a UW postdoctoral entrepreneur
CoMotion Labs at Startup Hall - front desk
People at CoMotion Labs, Startup Hall