UNM Rainforest Innovations (UNMRI) is proud to announce the establishment of The Sklar Catalyst and Acceleration Fund, a new initiative designed to support the next generation of innovators.
Inspired by the Wellborn Gap Fund, the new fund is the vision of Dr. Larry Sklar, a prolific UNM inventor, National Academy of Inventors Fellow, and co-founder of the successful UNM startup IntelliCyt. The fund aims to provide “catalytic” support by addressing the hurdles that can often stall a project’s momentum.
For Dr. Sklar, the motivation comes from his own experience navigating the commercialization process and a desire to foster local economic development.
A conversation with Dr. Larry Sklar:
What motivated you to become involved with UNM Rainforest Innovations (UNMRI)?
“As a working retiree at UNM, I have for some time participated in the Rainforest Accelerator program where I discuss my experience with commercialization through the UNM startup company IntellICyt cofounded with Bruce Edwards and Terry Dunlay. When my wife and I downsized from a neighborhood near UNM to West Downtown, within walking distance of the Rainforest, I wanted to find a way to engage my neighbors with the Rainforest as part of downtown economic development which was important to them.
At one of the neighborhood meetings, I learned about the Route 66 Centennial from an ABQ Museum leader who lived nearby which led to the idea of a panel series called Creativity on the Mother Road, bringing together creative artists and tech people. I also wanted to become involved in the hackathons and pitch competitions which allowed me to engage with young entrepreneurs.”
The decision to direct some of your royalties back into this fund is an impactful gesture. What motivated you to choose this model for giving back, and what do you hope to see come out of it?
“My commitment to UNMRI provided a way for me to be involved with both neighbors and young entrepreneurs. Being engaged provides satisfaction beyond my own academic background. It allows me to not only consider the organizational objectives and policies, but to see how catalytic investments could fill gaps in already established Rainforest programs to bridge and accelerate its objectives in economic and entrepreneurial development. For me, the return of royalties represents a symbolic gesture, returning to UNMRI revenues originating from interactions with the Rainforest since its inception as well as with my colleagues and collaborators.”
Was there a specific time in your own career where a similar fund would have made a significant difference for you?
“There were times when funds were lacking for travel to meetings to present commercial activities intended to provide benefit to the entire ecosystem which would have required out-of-pocket expenses.”
Are there specific types of special projects you are particularly excited to see this fund support?
“In the entrepreneurial space, I would like to see pre-seed funds used to fill gaps for inventors. Among other things, I could see funding within pitch competitions; funding for interfaces between the STEM and creative communities; support for travel for important connections; invitations to a speaker to the Rainforest or a meal/catering to build community.”
The Sklar Catalyst and Acceleration Fund is more than a financial resource, but a reflection of Dr. Sklar’s enduring commitment to the University of New Mexico and broader Albuquerque community. UNM Rainforest Innovations extends its deepest appreciation to Dr. Sklar for his vision and extraordinary generosity.