FirstIgnite champions university innovation and education, powering engaging interactions between companies and universities. We provide simple tools that solve complex problems, delivered as a university-focused marketing platform with global reach.
About FirstIgnite
Empowering Universities to Build Strong Corporate Partnerships
Our History
FirstIgnite was founded in 2019 with a goal of changing the world through the successful commercialization of scientific research. That year, we were given the opportunity to support the commercialization of cancer treatment molecules – proven to slow tumor growth in small animals – and help them reach human trials. Although our founders had no skills in oncology, we learned we could help cure cancer.
Since then, we’ve been on a mission to bring together the world’s brightest minds and most innovative companies to form partnerships that attack big opportunities, across pharmaceuticals, energy storage, cyber security, food production, water treatment, and so much more.
Backed by some of the top venture capital investors in the world, including Y Combinator, FirstIgnite has grown into a brand that champions bold innovators looking to make a positive impact on society.
Alone, we can’t cure cancer, we can’t alter plant genetics, and we can’t solve the world’s energy crises. But we can build products and offer services that bring together the world’s top innovators and companies, who can work together to accomplish anything they put their minds and resources to.
We are FirstIgnite and our mission is to leave the world better than we found it.
Backed by Champions of Innovation
Timeline
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2019
Company founded. First university partners are Stony Brook University and Auburn University.
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2020
Received investment from Michigan State University Research Foundation and participated in the Conquer Accelerator via Red Cedar Ventures.
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2021
Graduated from Y Combinator Summer 21 batch.
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2022
Reached milestones of over 2,000 innovation partnerships and over 250 new partnerships each month on FirstIgnite’s platform.
Core Values
Our Team
FirstIgnite is family, FirstIgnite is fun



















