Almost two years after its creation, Chancellor Holden Thorp’s Innovate@Carolina program has made ‘innovation’ the campus buzzword.
However, the approach to the project should be two-fold: fostering innovation while actively encouraging projects’ ability to persist in the real world.
The success of Innovate@Carolina adds to the many aspects of this University that give it the world recognition is has today. Yet, it may be worth it to take a step back from the whirlwind of ideas to ensure that innovation is not being fostered for innovation’s sake.
There needs to be a focus on measuring, monitoring and analyzing the long-term.
It is undoubtedly difficult to project the future success of a program. In fact, part of the program makes sure that future entrepreneurs know failure is inevitable and should actually be embraced as part of the learning process.
The Campus Y is taking steps in the right direction with its social innovation incubator. By utilizing workshops and bringing in field experts, the Campus Y focuses on the specific needs and progress levels of each venture.
Each of these programs is designed through the lens of sustainability to safeguard the transition from idea into reality.
While these departments and mentors will always be there as a safety net of strong relationships, a more active role should be taken once the venture moves out of the incubator.
The relationship should continue with mandatory check-ins and updates to monitor and ensure that the most sustainable practices are continuing to be utilized. Even the greatest ideas with thorough preparation may ultimately fall through without oversight.
