How do you start a business based on technologies developed in and around academic institutions such as West Virginia University?


This will be the topic of discussion when the West Virginia Entrepreneurs Forum meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the National Research Center for Coal and Energy on WVU ’s Evansdale campus.


Mike Nelson and Mark Coticchia, senior directors for the Redleaf Group, will review the international venture capital company’s investment programs. They will explain their”dotDorm”program for investing and providing business support services in early stage technologies being developed in and around universities, including WVU .


Also, Bob Wooldridge, deputy director of technology transfer for Carnegie Mellon University, will share experiences and successes with business start-ups that have emerged within CMU .


This meeting should be of special interest to WVU faculty, staff, students and possible local business partners interested in capitalizing on innovative concepts and technologies developed at the University.


The WVEF is a newly formed non-profit organization consisting of individuals from the business and technical community interested in promoting the formation and growth of innovative, technology-oriented companies.


WVEF meetings are typically held the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are free and open to the public. Monthly programs include networking with a variety of business professionals, including venture capitalists, private investors, industry experts, business service providers, inventors and other successful entrepreneurs.


This month’s program is underwritten by the Redleaf Group. Those planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP by Feb. 5 via the”contact us”page on the WVEF web site ( http://www.wvef.org ) or by calling Ann Liston at 304-293-5691, ext. 3393. Directions are also provided on the web site.