Frequently Asked Questions

Explore the i-Cubed™ FAQs to learn more about our services, processes, and how we can collaborate to drive innovation forward.

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General Startup Innovations Partner Innovations

Is i-Cubed part of Duke? How is i-Cubed governed? 

Is i-Cubed part of Duke?

i-Cubed™ was founded within the Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI). The DCRI, part of the Duke University School of Medicine, is the world’s largest academic clinical research organization. As an extension of the DCRI, i-Cubed has access to world-renowned leaders in clinical research who have deep expertise in operationalizing global studies. We are also partnered with the Duke Office for Translation and Commercialization (OTC) to ensure you have access to every opportunity for success. Our staff will help bring your ideas to maturity and pull in experts to guide you along the way. 

How is i-Cubed governed? 

The i-Cubed Leadership Team provides day-to-day governance of i-Cubed operations and strategy.    

The i-Cubed Advisory Board (AB) provides high-level, independent, strategic guidance to the center’s Leadership Team by helping to strengthen partnerships with research and funding communities, offering input into the program's strategy, priorities, policies, processes, and resources, and generally advancing the goals of i-Cubed. The AB is made up of experts in medicine, clinical research, technology, and finance.  

As an innovator, what can I expect from i-Cubed?  As an innovator, what will i-Cubed expect from me? As an innovator, how will my materials and IP be protected? Does Duke make money from my innovation?  Will i-Cubed invest in my idea or startup?   Will you help me source capital – e.g. external investment or grants?   Who can I contact with questions about the Startup Innovations pathway?

As an innovator, what can I expect from i-Cubed? 

Collaboration is at the core of our ethos. At i-Cubed, we partner with individuals and teams to transform their ideas into viable products or startup companies that have the power to improve clinical research. We provide comprehensive resources, mentorship, and access to a network of experts. Our aim is to connect innovators with expertise that can help you develop your ideas, conduct market analysis, and identify potential sources of funding as you progress toward launch.

Please note that i-Cubed does not provide startup funding, nor do we assist with the development of new drugs, devices, or medical products.

As an innovator, what will i-Cubed expect from me?

Innovators will collaborate closely with i-Cubed team members, partners, and industry experts to refine and ready their solutions for launch. However, as the innovator, you remain the chief architect of your solution. It is your responsibility to propel your idea forward, leveraging our support. i-Cubed will assist you with tasks such as formulating an innovation roadmap, creating a compelling pitch deck, acting on expert advice, engaging with partners and potential investors, and providing valuable insights into the commercial viability of your concept.

As an innovator, how will my materials and IP be protected?

At i-Cubed, our role is to help you, the Innovator, transform your idea into a viable product, initiative, or startup company. As part of working with i-Cubed, you will submit an Invention Disclosure Form (IDF) to the Duke Office of Translation & Commercialization (OTC). The IDF is the first step in documenting and ultimately protecting and licensing your invention.

For more information about intellectual property protection, visit: https://otc.duke.edu/faqs/#invention-disclosure

Does Duke make money from my innovation? 

Will i-Cubed invest in my idea or startup?  

Will you help me source capital – e.g. external investment or grants?  

Who can I contact with questions about the Startup Innovations pathway?

Does Duke make money from my innovation?  Who can I contact with questions about the Partner Innovations pathway?

Does Duke make money from my innovation? 

For Partner Innovations, i-Cubed charges consulting fees, per agreement with each partner. As the innovation is the property of the partner, Duke retains no stake in or benefits from the revenue of the innovation. 

Who can I contact with questions about the Partner Innovations pathway?