Clemson University, a Carnegie R1 public research institution in Clemson, South Carolina, is a driving force in innovation, blending academic excellence with entrepreneurial impact. Renowned for its strengths in engineering, business, life sciences, and technology, Clemson fuels the Southeast’s startup ecosystem through robust programs like the Clemson University Research Foundation (CURF). CURF empowers faculty, students, and external entrepreneurs by facilitating tech transfer and supporting the launch of high-potential startups. The Brook T. Smith Launchpad serves as the university’s entrepreneurship hub, providing mentorship from accomplished alumni founders, vector teams, and access to NSF I-Corps programs for customer discovery and venture development. With initiatives like the MBA in Entrepreneurship & Innovation and cutting-edge research in automotive engineering, Clemson cultivates a dynamic pipeline of scalable technologies and talent, making it a vital partner for investors and early-stage ventures seeking transformative opportunities in the Southeast.