The University of California Board of Regents has announced the launch of the UC Regents Innovation Awards, a new initiative designed to recognize significant contributions from faculty and research scientists across its 10 campuses and three national laboratories. The awards aim to highlight achievements that translate innovative ideas into practical applications and encourage research with societal impact.
“These annual awards will recognize groundbreaking research, transformative startups, and community partnerships that exemplify the University’s commitment to innovation and public benefit,” said UC Board of Regents Chair Janet Reilly.
Each campus and national laboratory is invited to nominate one person or entity per award in five categories: the Gamechanger Award for impactful products introduced to the market; the Disruptive Research Award for novel research with strong development potential; the Best Startup Award for companies using UC research to address societal needs; the Community Changemaker Award for private sector leaders or organizations supporting UC innovation; and the Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award for faculty or researchers whose careers have led to lasting positive impacts.
Campuses and labs will develop their own nomination processes. Nominees will be evaluated by the President’s Entrepreneurship Network Council between May and June. The Board of Regents will select up to three awardees per category during the summer.
Winners will be announced at a gala event in August at the UC Student and Policy Center in Sacramento. The Gamechanger, Disruptive Research, and Best Startup awards each include a cash prize of at least $10,000.
The awards are established under Regents Policy 5105 (Policy on Innovation Transfer & Entrepreneurship). More information is available on the UC Regents Innovation Awards page.
