Outcomes and Metrics

RURC is designed to deliver measurable progress across commercialization, industry engagement, and inclusive innovation, translating institutional capacity into regional economic impact.

Outcomes timeline - What success looks like

Near-term progress
(Years 1-3)

  • Increased faculty and industry participation

  • Stronger cross-campus coordination

  • Clearer navigation for external partners

  • 150+ early-stage opportunities supported

  • 30+ opportunities advance toward market readiness

1

Mid-term outcomes (Years 3-5)

  • Strong pipeline for licensing and startups

  • Trusted cross-university commercialization network

  • Expanded multi-institution industry partnerships

  • Increased national visibility of Kansas City’s innovation strengths

2

Long-term impact (Years 5-10)

  • Kansas City recognized as a Heartland innovation hub

  • Durable innovation ecosystem beyond the grant period

  • Universities integrated into regional economic governance

  • Measurable economic benefits: job growth, productivity, mobility

3

Measurement Approach

RURC uses a coordinated evaluation and measurement framework to track progress, support learning, and continuously improve implementation over time — including commercialization activity, partnership outcomes, and inclusive participation indicators.