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PItch Day at SDSU, an opportunity for faculty members to share their entrepreneurial ideas, was revived Nov. 1 after being inactive for a number of years.

The current effort is the vision of the South ��ֱ���� State University Division of Research and Economic Development and the Research Office in the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering. It featured six presenters — four from engineering, one from the College of Natural Sciences and one from the School of Psychology, Sociology and Rural Studies. 

Rajesh Kavasseri, associate dean for research in the Lohr College of Engineering, served as moderator. He said the presentations at the Research Park at South ��ֱ���� State University are expected to continue on a quarterly basis.

“These will give principal investigators from throughout the university an opportunity to share their start-up ideas with community members and retired faculty who have already gone down the path of turning an idea into a business,” Kavasseri said.

The presenters, who are in varying stages of business development, also fielded questions from the audience. About 40 people nearly filled the entry rotunda at the Research Park. In addition to faculty members and graduate students, the audience included business and community leaders who have had venture capital experience.

Lohr College of Engineering presenters and their topics:

• Solaiman Tarafder, assistant professor in mechanical engineering, creating a biodegradable material that can be used during rotator cuff surgeries to improve healing.

• Saikat Basu, assistant professor in mechanical engineering, using computational fluid dynamics simulations to test the efficacy of proposed respiratory therapies.

• Xijin “Steve” Ge, professor in mathematics and statistics, using AI-powered chatbots to allow users to interact with their data through a simple chat interface without needing coding.

• Xiaojun Xian, assistant professor in electrical engineering and computer science, developing a wristband device that accurately reads oxygen levels on all skin tones.

Other presenters:

• Greg Heiberger, associate professor in biology, creating an app that will help high school and college students visualize intercellular processes.

• Lacy Knutson, assistant professor in psychology, creating a high-tech and stylish helmet that can be worn by people with disabilities who tend to self-injure.

Among the audience was David Chicoine, the 19th president of SDSU who previously served as vice president for technology and economic development at the University of Illinois.

He told the presenters, “It’s not about the money, but it is always about the money. Always be prepared to answer the question, ‘How much money do you need, and what are you going to use it for?’”  

Tarafder said, “Participating in SDSU Pitch Day was an invaluable experience for me as it provided a platform to share my research with business and community leaders who have had venture capital experience. It allowed me to receive constructive feedback on the commercialization potential of my work. 

“Additionally, engaging with experienced entrepreneurs and community members broadened my perspective on the challenges and strategies involved in turning innovative ideas into successful business ventures.”