Ratcliffe Environmental Entrepreneurs Fellowship (REEF) Program

IMET's Ratcliffe Environmental Entrepreneur Fellow (REEF) Program is a seven-month entrepreneurial training program for IMET graduate students. We function as an entrepreneurship "bootcamp" designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and commercial innovation. Through monthly sessions, participants learn foundational business skills such as intellectual property management, market analysis, financing, and effective communication, often bringing in co-instructors with expertise in law, finance, and market research. Students build business plans around their scientific ideas, apply their research and find solutions to real-world problems.  

REEF alumni have used their skills to start businesses, lead within established companies, develop environmental policy in federal agencies, and advance research in an academic setting. 

Program Elements: 

• Intellectual Property and Idea Protection
• Market Analysis and Customer Understanding
• Funding and Financing
• Pitching and Communication
• Business Planning
• Soft Skill Development

Sample Topics:

• Intellectual Property Development and Management- Good vs. Great
• Marketing & Strategic Communications
• Stage Gate Theory Applied to Business Planning

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REEF mentors are an invaluable part of the program. Some mentors are subject matter experts, and some are local entrepreneurs who provide inspiration along with information.