We Are In This Together: Evaluating the Impact Of/On Community For Translational Research/Research Commercialization Programs

Translational research and commercialization programs are deeply embedded in local and regional innovation ecosystems, where communities both influence and are influenced by these efforts. Community members shape programs as collaborators in research, product development, and commercialization, while also benefiting from new innovations and enhanced translational capacity through workforce upskilling and entrepreneurial engagement.

This multi-paper session explores three evaluations that examine (A) how communities impact translational research and commercialization programs, and (B) how these programs, in turn, affect their surrounding communities. Presenters will share theories of change, logic models, and indicators used to assess community impact, illustrating how community engagement strengthens innovation ecosystems and accelerates translation from research to real-world benefit.