Innovation, Incubation & Spinouts
Coaching for researchers, inventors and founders turning science and technology into companies, and for the programs that support them.
Executive Coaching
Coaching for spinout founders and the programs that support them
Turning research into a company is a different job from doing the research. I work with inventors, academic founders and early teams on the first steps: customers, team, funding, and the founder’s own role.
What spinout founders bring to coaching
- Finding the customer. Testing whether anyone will pay before building everything.
- Founder roles. Deciding who leads, how the lab and the company relate, and when to bring in a business co-founder.
- First funding. Grants, accelerators and first investors, and how to tell the story to each.
My background
I mentor through NSF I-Corps, Cornell eLab, Techstars and YC, and mentored hardware founders at the Rev Hardware Manufacturing Accelerator. With the US Department of Commerce, I provided entrepreneurial coaching in the Western Balkans. I have founded three companies myself.
“Vladimir was my mentor at the Rev Hardware Manufacturing Accelerator. His support has been instrumental in the milestones we’ve achieved with my startup. Vladimir shared valuable insights on our business strategy and fundraising.”
Aleksandr, CEO and Founder, HealthTech
“His insights, ability to thoughtfully guide complex discussions, deep listening, and genuine commitment to our partners’ success stood out throughout the engagement.”
Laura, Program Specialist, US Department of Commerce
Turning research into a company? See science founder coaching and coaching for founders, or book a free 30-minute call.
Frequently asked questions
What is coaching for spinout founders?
One-to-one coaching for researchers, inventors and early-stage founders commercializing science and technology. We work on customer discovery, founder roles, team building and first funding.
Do you work with incubators, accelerators and university programs?
Yes. I mentor through NSF I-Corps, Cornell eLab, Techstars and YC, mentored at the Rev Hardware Manufacturing Accelerator, and coached entrepreneurs with the US Department of Commerce. Get in touch to discuss coaching for your founders.
How does coaching work?
It starts with a free 30-minute call to see whether we are a fit. Sessions are one-to-one over video, usually every two to three weeks, with practical actions to try between sessions.