Additional presentations by several of the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Centers (NSECs) focusing on nanomanufacturing provided a glimpse of emerging process technologies impacting a range of applications including electronics, healthcare, energy, and advanced sensors. Key challenges being addressed by these NSECs located at Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and University of California Berkeley respectively, included advanced lithographic tools using plasmonic techniques, directed self-assembly to create next generation nanoelectronics, and combined nanoimprint and nanoparticle driven assembly techniques established on roll-to-roll platforms for future flexible electronics applications. Additional keynotes by both investors in nanotechnology companies, as well as CEOs of nanotechnology companies discussed the approaches towards commercialization of their companies products, citing effective approaches to leverage academic research and technology transfer, the value of public-private partnerships, methods to build revenue and avoid the “valley of death” that so many start-up companies encounter in attempting to mature their products and applications.
Presentations by Doug Jamison, CEO at Harris and Harris group, and Scott Livingston from Livingston Securities, further addressed issues facing investors in nanotechnology startup companies. Doug Jamison emphasized the commitment and patience that is necessary for nanotechnology investors as it is typically on the order of a decade for many nanotechnology startups to grow and become viable. Additionally, he cited that many companies have had to revaluate their business plans and strategies over this time as re-positioning within the value chain is usually necessary for growing companies in order to adjust to shifting technologies, competition, and financial requirements. Doug reiterated that the patience is beginning to pay off with recent successful IPOs and acquisitions coming from his portfolio of companies in this space. Scott Livingston discussed the need for access to capital for nanotechnology companies to grow and approach the IPO stage. He further lamented on the slow pace of banks in pushing out new IPOs, and that this was stifling the industry. He advocated the need for new methods of raising the necessary capital for bringing nanotechnology companies into public offerings, and further cited an innovative approach his company is providing.
In summary, the Nanomanufacturing Summit 2011 provided the platform for key information exchange amongst stakeholders from all areas. Overviews of the event will be posted on Internano and the conference website, where conference presentations and information’s for future events can also be accessed.