Bijo Mathew is the visionary Founding Director of the Technology Commercialization Center at the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Lead Network, located at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). As a seasoned scientific program director, innovative researcher, and Principal Investigator (PI), Mr. Mathew brings a wealth of expertise to his role. With over 20 years of experience in academia, basic and applied R&D, strategy and business development, technology commercialization, innovation, and public-private partnerships, Mr. Mathew is the driving force behind developing regional strategies and providing executive direction to enhance innovation.
At the SBDC Technology Commercialization Center, Mr. Mathew oversees programs that provide access to groundbreaking, high-impact, and high-risk funding for applied and translational research opportunities. In collaboration with regional SBDC partners and universities, Mr. Mathew offers technical assistance to increase awareness about proof of concept and early-stage funding opportunities to advance the commercialization of technological and scientific innovations, discoveries, and technology transfer opportunities.
Mr. Mathew’s expertise in acquiring Federal (SBIR & STTR), Corporate & State grant funding for applied interdisciplinary research and development is unparalleled. He has a demonstrated track record of success in the multidisciplinary applications of material science and engineering in subject areas of nanotechnology, photocatalysis, metamaterials, nanomaterials, surfactant applications, high surface area materials, polymer nanocomposites, carbon nanotubes (SWNT & MWNT), nanowires, energy storage materials, synthetic biology, medical diagnostics, and biomedical projects.
Mr. Mathew received his MBA and Master of Science in Chemical, Biological & Material Science Engineering from the University of Oklahoma. As the Principal Investigator (PI) to the Small Business Administration (SBA) Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program award to support R&D and Small Business Innovation across the State of Texas, Mr. Mathew is committed to the development of the region and its growth potential. His corporate executive roles have included V.P. of Strategy & Business Development and Executive Director of Innovation and Public-Private Partnerships.
As the Technology Commercialization Center’s Founding Director, Mr. Mathew leads the charge to advance regional innovation and entrepreneurship. His dedication and expertise make him an invaluable member of the UTSA community and the perfect person to lead the charge in developing the region’s potential for growth and development.
