Jeff Blackwood Joins the UMKC Innovation Center as Commercialization Ecosystem Director
We are thrilled to introduce and welcome Jeff Blackwood to his new role as Commercialization Ecosystem Director at the UMKC Innovation Center’s Technology Venture Studio.
In Jeff’s role, he will expand awareness, processes, opportunities and connections for increased technology commercialization at UMKC.
Jeff brings a wealth of experience as a serial entrepreneur with a diverse background in health care, behavioral health, education, telecommunications, software development and power engineering industries.
“I’m a Kansas City native, and I’m excited with the momentum that has been building within the community,” Jeff says. “As an alumnus of UMKC’s EMBA program (2008), I understand the influence that UMKC has within the community, and I know the university will play a pivotal role in continuing that momentum. Working with the UMKC Innovation Center’s Technology Venture Studio is my chance to be a part of that while helping UMKC’s research work improve our world.”
In his most recent endeavor, Jeff founded New Frontier Mobile Diagnostics, a venture aimed at enhancing health outcomes and promoting health equity through affordable diagnostic imaging. Prior to New Frontier, Jeff founded Pathfinder Health Innovations (acq. by CentralReach in 2019), an international software platform for autism data collection and billing. Jeff is also a PIPELINE Fellow and HEMP Member.
“This new role will be pivotal in driving innovation, forging strategic partnerships and unlocking new commercialization opportunities throughout UMKC that will propel us towards a future of impactful growth and success,” says Jill Meyer, senior director of Technology Venture Studio.
Fun fact: Jeff is a “Fantasy Island” enthusiast and is the host of the world’s largest Facebook fan page for “Fantasy Island,” a destination for fans of the 1970’s fantasy drama television series.
Jeff’s expertise and extensive background make him perfectly suited for working with UMKC research faculty to share their work with potential industry partners and advancing the commercialization of technology at UMKC and across the Kansas City region.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Jeff as he embarks on this exciting journey with us.
