UM Commercialization Bridging Grant (UM-CBG)

Bridging Research to Market

The UM Commercialization Bridging Grant (UM-CBG) is a targeted funding initiative by Universiti Malaya to support the transition of research innovations from proof-of-concept to market-ready solutions.

This grant is designed to accelerate UM technologies into products, services, or startups, contributing to real-world impact and industry adoption.

About the Grant

UM-CBG focuses on advancing innovations beyond early-stage research by supporting:

• Product development and validation
• Commercial readiness
• Industry collaboration
• Startup growth

It also serves as a key initiative to support UM Deep Tech Accelerator (UMDT) alumni and UM-affiliated startups in scaling their innovations.

Objectives

The grant aims to:

• Increase Technology Readiness Level (TRL) towards commercialization
• Strengthen UM startups and spin-offs
• Enable industry-academia collaboration
• Translate research into real-world solutions

Who Can Apply

This grant is open to:

• UM staff who are also startup founders
• UMDT alumni
• Founders of UM spin-off/startup companies

Requirements:

• The innovation must be based on UM research or intellectual property (IP)
• Applicants without a company must establish one upon approval

Funding Details

• 💰 Up to RM500,000 per project
• ⏳ Duration: 12 months (no extension allowed)

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under UM-CBG are expected to achieve:

• A working prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
• Increased Technology & Market Readiness
• At least one industry engagement (e.g., MoU, LOI, pilot project)
• Active commercialization efforts
• Development of marketing or visibility assets

What Can Be Funded

Eligible Expenses:

• Research assistants (RA)
• Travel for fieldwork, pilot studies, or exhibitions
• Rental of space, equipment, or transport
• Research materials and supplies
• Professional services (consultation, printing, etc.)
• Small equipment and accessories (up to RM10,000)

Not Eligible:

• Laptop and general software purchases
• Major renovations
• Expenses not directly related to the project

Application Process

1. Call for Application announced by UMCIE
2. Prepare proposal including:
   • Project objectives
   • Methodology
   • Expected outcomes
   • Commercialization plan (TRL progression)
3. Submit application form and CV
4. Evaluation based on:
   • Relevance
   • Technical feasibility
   • Commercial potential
   • Market viability

Evaluation & Monitoring

• Progress report every 6 months
• Final report upon project completion
• Evaluation by UMCIE and industry experts
• Post-project monitoring for up to 12 months

Ethics Approval

Required for projects involving:

• Human participants
• Animal subjects
• Primary data collection

Approval must be submitted within 3 months of project start.

Ready to Commercialize Your Innovation?

Take the next step in bringing your research to market.

📩 Contact us: comml@um.edu.my
📄 Download full guidelines & apply now

Garis panduan UM-CBG_7 April 2026_compressed.pdf