Gifts leverage R&D

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From a potential drug for the most common adult form of muscular dystrophy to energy-producing window treatments, private gifts are helping fast-track UO innovations.

A dozen projects have received grants totaling $449,857 through the University Venture Development Fund, a state program offering income tax credits to qualified donors.

"The University Venture Development Fund is creating a spiral going in the right direction. In today's world, you don't see too many of those," said Kirby Dyess, a principal in Austin Capital Management of Beaverton and former State Board of Higher Education president.

Since the program's launch in October 2007, the UO has raised about $800,000, roughly 25 percent of its $3.27 million authorized total. In January, the university began repaying the state treasury for the tax credits with income from grant-supported ventures.

The UO set another state record for income from commercialization of research in 2007–8, receiving $6.8 million in licensing revenue.

See how gifts are advancing innovation at uoventurefund.uoregon.edu.