As one of the oldest technical degree granting universities in the United States, RPI has a long history of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. From chemistry and civil engineering in the 19th Century, to gaming and nanomaterials in the 21st Century, RPI students, faculty, and alumni have been pioneers in developing technologies that have benefitted society. Many interesting patents have been awarded to RPI students and faculty.
Innovation pervades RPI’s culture dating back to its co-founder, Amos Eaton, whose philosophy for education was “the application of science to the common purposes of life.” For 200 years, RPI students, faculty, and alumni have had some remarkable Rensselaer Firsts.
To promote innovation on campus, RPI established the first university-based Incubator program in the United States in 1979. In 1983, the Rensselaer Technology Park Campus was opened, and since its inception, technology-based companies have flourished as tenants.
Invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship are part of RPI’s history and culture. Among national universities, RPI ranks third in percentage of our alumni who have become inventors. Since 1990, some of RPI’s most successful entrepreneurs – those who have affected either technical or social change – have been recognized through the annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Come join the ranks of RPI innovators!
Questions on entrepreneurship, inventions, or the Entrepreneur of the Year Award? Contact the Severino Center Staff or request a meeting with RPI’s AdVenture Team.