Dr Ivana Milic – The practicalities of forming a university spin out

Dr Ivana Milic saw an opportunity to commercialise her research on extracellular vesicles as a therapeutic treatment for inflammatory conditions. As co-founder for EVolution Therapeutics Ltd, she walked us through her journey of spinning out a company from Aston University. 

Ivana’s first step – and biggest recommendation for anyone thinking of starting the same journey – was to reach out to her university’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO). The TTO performed a freedom to operate search and signposted her to further support and funding. Ivana talked through how Innovate UK’s ICURe programme works and helped her define a commercial need for her business idea. As her journey continues, she shared other practical tips such as what’s needed in order to secure a patent, and when it’s best to hold off publishing and talking about research if you think there’s a potential commercial opportunity.