How it Works
RURC drives systems change at three connected levels — within universities, across universities, and across the region using shared governance, shared tools, and targeted investments to move research into impact.
Theory of Change
A three-level model for systems change
Level 1: Institutional capacity (within universities)
Each university strengthens internal commercialization and industry engagement capacity through staff, tools, and data systems.
Level 2: Cross-university coordination (between universities)
KU, K-State, and UMKC operate as a shared enterprise through aligned governance, shared learning, and collective execution.
Level 3: Regional system integration (with civic and industry partners)
RURC connects university innovation to regional priorities — expanding entrepreneurship, job creation, and inclusive economic opportunity.
The collaboration model
The RURC collaboration model
Industry
Industry engagement and responsiveness to market
Innovation
Developing opportunities from research discoveries
Growth
Preparing high-potential opportunities for commercialization
Culture
Faculty education and cultural evolution
Inclusive Innovation
Building pathways for inclusive participation
Investment Approach
An investment designed for long-term durability
RURC is structured to build lasting infrastructure, shifting over time toward sustainability through diversified funding that includes federal and state innovation grants, national philanthropy, and earned revenue from partnerships and programming.