Entrepreneur and Innovation Bernal Community support
Bernal Founders Forum
Ideas. Experience.
Conversations.
Commercialisation.
A community of support for anyone at the Bernal Institute interested in
turning research into commercial ventures. Researchers, entrepreneurs
and people with commercial experience, learning from one another.
Could your research have a commercial application?
Maybe you have an idea but don't know where to start. Or you're already exploring commercialisation and would value advice from people who have been there before.
The Bernal Founders Forum brings together PhD researchers, postdoctoral researchers and principal investigators with entrepreneurs and people who have built and run companies. Together we share ideas, ask questions, talk through challenges and learn from one another.
The Forum in action
Connecting Bernal researchers with
people who build ventures
Founders Forum members have been bringing Bernal research into conversation with the
wider UL innovation and entrepreneurship community.
April 2026
Engaging with Tairseach
The Bernal Founders Forum welcomed Tairseach for a two-day engagement focused on research innovation, entrepreneurship and commercialisation. The visit brought together researchers, emerging spin-outs and experienced entrepreneurs to share insights, explore commercial opportunities and discuss pathways to international markets. The engagement reflects the spirit of the Bernal Founders Forum, connecting scientific expertise with entrepreneurial experience to help translate research into real-world impact.
May 2026
Connecting Research Entrepreneurship with the UL Foundation Board
Bernal Founders Forum researchers and entrepreneurs had the opportunity to present their innovations and commercialisation journeys to the University of Limerick Foundation Board. The engagement provided a platform to showcase emerging research led ventures, share entrepreneurial experiences and explore the potential for innovation to create realworld impact. It reflects the spirit of the Bernal Founders Forum, connecting researchers with experienced business leaders to encourage collaboration, mentorship and future opportunities.
Next Founders Forum
Starting at the beginning
We'll share some experiences of research commercialisation and, most importantly, hear from you.
When: [DATE, TIME]
Where: AD1-045, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick
- What does commercialising research actually involve?
- How do you know if your research has commercial potential?
- Where do you start, and who can help?
- What would you like to learn from the Forum?
Everyone is welcome
Simply curious
Come and listen. You don't need an idea to take part.
Early-stage idea
Test your thinking with people who have been there before.
Already on the journey
Share what you've learned and find support for what's next.
Bring your curiosity, your questions and your experiences.
No business plan required!
Got questions or want to explore the possibilities
