- Date published
Recently, efactory hosted a dynamic research-focused panel designed to help faculty and staff uncover new opportunities for collaboration, funding, and impact. The event brought together experts from across campus, each representing key components of Missouri State University’s thriving innovation ecosystem, to discuss how researchers can tap into university resources and external partnerships to advance their work.
Led by Rachel Munday, efactory Executive Director, the panel highlighted how coordinated support across MSU empowers researchers to move ideas forward, build meaningful collaborations, and strengthen regional economic growth.
The panel included representatives from the Office of Research Administration, efactory and Missouri SBDC at MSU, Jordan Valley Innovation Center and the Provost’s Office.
Key Topics and Takeaways
The discussion covered several critical components of the research development journey:
Finding Funding & Understanding Requirements
Marina Loveland provided insight into navigating internal and external funding sources, with guidance on identifying grant opportunities and building competitive proposals. She also highlighted compliance and regulatory considerations, emphasizing the importance of early communication with the Office of Research Administration to stay on track with requirements.
Commercialization & Industry Partnerships
Allen Kunkel and Dr. Lance Coffman dove into how MSU supports commercialization pathways — whether through applied research partnerships, prototyping opportunities, or business advising and market validation through the efactory.
They encouraged faculty and researchers to consider how their work might translate into real-world solutions, products, or services.
Building Collaborations Across Campus
Panelists emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary teamwork. Whether a researcher is seeking specialized equipment, subject matter expertise, or new directions for a project, MSU offers a wide range of collaborative opportunities across departments and centers.
Aligning Research with University Strategy
Dr. Ken Brown provided guidance on how research efforts connect to broader university goals, highlighting MSU’s commitment to innovation, student success, and regional impact.
Driving Regional Economic Growth
A recurring theme throughout the panel was the role research plays in strengthening the economy. From high-tech innovation at JVIC to venture development supported by efactory, MSU’s research ecosystem is designed to fuel job creation, attract investment, and strengthen Missouri’s competitive edge.
Want a deeper dive?
Marina said:
- Start early: Contact research administration well before grant deadlines (minimum 3 business days for final review)
- Funding support is available: Travel funds, summer GA funds, equipment match, and course reassignment funds help faculty pursue grants
- Office provides tailored assistance: Take advantage of templates and guidance for grant writers
- Seek post-award support: Research admin acts as liaison with grants accounting and funding agencies throughout the project lifecycle
Allen wanted participants to know:
- IP policy is aggressive: The first $50K of revenue goes to faculty/researchers
- Low barrier to access: Just 1-3 invention disclosures per year means personalized attention for each project
- Equipment access: JVIC equipment available for research (coordinate in advance due to proprietary/DOD security)
- Utilize industry connections: efactory and JVIC specialize in connecting with business partners and commercialization opportunities
Lance shared that efactory can help with:
- Market validation: Provide market data, industry analysis, and financial projections to assess commercial viability
- Grant support: Helps with SBIR/STTR applications and commercialization plans
- Translation services: Help communicate technical research in language that industry partners and funders understand
- Experiential learning partnerships: Connects faculty, students, and businesses through course projects
Ken focused on:
- Strategic alignment: Applied research is woven throughout MSU’s new strategic plan
- Outside-in approach: Shifting from “what we have” to “what the community needs”
- Recognition matters: Faculty handbook already values applied research equally with discovery research
- Database development: Working to catalog university expertise to better match talent with industry needs
Bottom Line
Missouri State has built infrastructure specifically designed to help faculty move from promising ideas to real-world impact. The key is reaching out early and often – whether you’re exploring a vague concept or ready to submit a grant.