KSEF's Dr. Emilie Clemmens on Supporting Kentucky Innovation

Behind every successful innovation are people dedicated to helping ideas grow. In this Q&A series, we're sitting down with members of the KSEF team to learn about their work, what inspires them and how they're helping strengthen Kentucky's innovation ecosystem.

Dr. Emilie Clemmens serves as the Associate Director of Innovation, Health & Biosciences at the Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation (KSEF), an initiative of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation. Drawing on her background as a scientist, grant writer and entrepreneurial support specialist, she helps Kentucky innovators navigate the path from research to commercialization.

Why does KSEF's work matter to Kentucky?

For me, KSEF is a lifeline for tech entrepreneurship in Kentucky. We offer free services to anyone seeking help with maturing their technology research and development, or even just getting off the ground! It really helps level the playing field to get new participants involved in the tech ecosystem. Over the past few decades, KSEF has built a strong network of connections all over the state, too, so we can not only help you find funding but also can link you with others that can help you move forward.

Why does your role at KSEF involve?

I'm one of four Associate Directors for Innovation. Together, we are a dynamic team with a variety of backgrounds and experiences that can most effectively help different types of clients. My background is in life sciences and engineering, so I often step in to assist clients in the health tech space, but really we all bounce ideas off each other as well as the broader KSEF team. This fosters a better experience for both us and the client. I also love to write and edit, so I'm always helping with that part!

What impact are you most proud to help create through your role?

I can't pick one. I've been so thrilled to help Kentuckians in so many ways. I love helping people find funding for their tech and nascent companies, but I'm also so proud of being a part of group efforts that are working to make Kentucky more environmentally resilient (through NSF grant: CAPTIVATE KY) and supporting soil-less AgTech research at Kentucky State University (through NSF grant: DARE-KY).

Why is it so important to support startups and early-stage innovation in Kentucky?

We have Kentuckians all over the Commonwealth with great ideas who really want to help people. That's something that's been really motivating: hearing from individuals with experience who are actively developing technology to improve the lives of others. It's rarely just about making money, which is great because that drive and passion are an important element to succeeding with a startup. To add, they also need support to get off the ground and make key connections that can drive them forward, especially if they don't have an investment. We're often the first stop for many of these individuals, and without that support, too many ideas just never make it out of the first stage.

What's something people might not realize about KSEF's work?

Some know we are the go-to crew for small business research funding (via the SBIR/STTR programs), but not many seem to know that our services are broader. We are really about supporting Kentucky R&D statewide, and we're part of the KSTC non-profit organization, not a part of a university.

What advice would you give someone with a great idea who's thinking about taking the next step?

Talk to us! We love to hear about new ideas and we will do what we can to help. Also, make sure to do your research on what's out there already and know what makes you unique.

Meet the Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation team.