Innovation Transfer Network Aids Innovation of Fitness and Nutrition
Hectic schedules create a challenge for those trying to find time to support good nutrition and fitness habits.
Companies like Better Bowls and HydroWorx are using the Innovation Transfer Network (ITN) to help launch new products that enhance active lifestyles by introducing advanced fitness and training technology and developing easy-to-prepare nutritional foods.
The Innovation Transfer Network, based in Harrisburg, helps companies develop and market new products by connecting them to faculty and students across 13 colleges and universities in South Central Pennsylvania. The program was founded by Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern PA (BFTP/CNP), in conjunction with the Keystone Innovation Zone and PA Department of Community and Economic Development. ITN’s unique model, with access to over 3,000 faculty members, has created the ultimate technology transfer office.
HydroWorx manufactures aquatic therapy pools that can be used not only by professional and collegiate athletic programs, but also by medical centers and physical therapy facilities. With the goal of reaching new markets, HydroWorx was led by ITN to Millersville University. There, student and faculty teams conducted market research and analysis. The successful collaboration resulted in additional projects between the business students, faculty and HydroWorx management team.
Better Bowls faced the challenge of encouraging kids to eat healthy, nutritional snacks that are also easy for parents to prepare. ITN worked with the company to support the research and resources required to improve the packaging of Better Bowls, a gluten-free gelatin and pudding product. Better Bowls worked with food scientists at Penn State’s College of Medicine and is now rolling out their pudding snacks to major grocery store chains across Pennsylvania.
Tags: 