Note: The North Carolina Center of Innovation Network is a partner of WRAL TechWire.

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – On Jan. 11, the North Carolina Center of Innovation Network (COIN) will host its first Business Education Event of 2017. Later in the month, another event – InnovEight 8 – also will appeal to startups.

These events are purposed to provide actionable and practical information to increase the success of STEM related businesses. COIN’s Business Education Events will feature experienced subject matter experts presenting relevant information on topics of interest to attendees.

The first event, scheduled for Jan. 11 will be held at the First Flight Venture Center in RTP from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.  “Closing the Deal” will cover practical points of closing licensing and research contracts; buying, selling, or leasing.  Henry Kopf, a seasoned life sciences entrepreneur and attorney will lead the discussion. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn new, innovative ways of structuring and closing their next deal.

“We’ve found that many of our most innovative and brilliant young scientists, researchers, and technologists, our STEMpreneurs, can benefit from the business experience and practical knowledge of specialists in areas that support their endeavors”, said Joe Magno, COIN’s Executive Director, “in many cases learning these practical business insights can reduce time to market for our great STEM based companies”.

On Tuesday, Jan. 24 the first 2017 InnovEight 8 will also be held at the First Flight Venture Center in RTP.  InnovEight 8 events provide an opportunity for Stempreneurs to present their business cases and receive unbiased feedback from other entrepreneurs, business executives, and potential investors. Attendees will have an opportunity to hear from and comment on two fast moving high potential North Carolina startups, one focused on fish bait and the other on the development of a skilled workforce.  Presenting will be Anthony Dellinger, CEO of Kepley BioSystems, and Derrick Ware, CEO of Atriad Partners.

Tickets for both events are available on Eventbrite (InnovEight and Closing The Deal).