K-State institute’s expanded focus: Boost Kansas companies launching new tech

Every Startup A Wildcat? The Technology Development Institute at Kansas State University is evolving its role and services to improve the economic competitiveness of Kansas companies.

Technology Development Institute, Kansas State University

Broadening activity at the institute — formerly known as the Advanced Manufacturing Institute — reflects a focus on developing, protecting and launching new technologies for a range of partners, including industry, entrepreneurs, university researchers and the community, said Jeff Tucker, executive director of the Manhattan-based institute.

“This vision will be achieved through continuing efforts to evaluate potential opportunities, provide engineering, prototyping and testing support, and assisting local communities in innovation and growth efforts,” Tucker said. “This transformation is the next evolution of strategic engagement in the state’s innovation-based economy and beyond.”

Founded in 1985 as a Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation Center of Excellence, the Advanced Manufacturing Institute originally focused on research of advanced manufacturing processes and providing technical assistance to manufacturers across Kansas. Over time, its mission has expanded to facilitate the creation of new products and technologies anywhere in the world and provide assistance to ensure these innovations are successfully commercialized.

Since 1995, the institute has executed more than 2,700 projects, assisted more than 650 Kansas companies and organizations, and employed/trained more than 600 Kansas State University engineering and business student interns.

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The Technology Development Institute recently secured a five-year grant through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration University Center program and the Kansas Department of Commerce to assist in this transition process.

“Through this federal and state partnership, TDI will not only continue to serve manufacturers of the Midwest but over time will expand its innovation services to a broader array of technology companies and build deeper development collaborations with industry partners, university researchers and communities alike,” Tucker said.