The i-Teams program was initially introduced by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and was later taken over by the University of Cambridge. i-Teams revolutionizes academic research and its impacts on society. For more than a decade, i-Teams has driven the commercialization of university-based inventions, providing social benefits through innovative research.

The i-Teams program was designed to bring together multidisciplinary teams consisting of students, researchers, and professionals to tackle real-world problems and develop innovative solutions.

i-Teams emerged from the need to form sustainable enterprise development through research. By using this method of approach, innovation can act as a catalyst for economic growth and societal development. Through research, innovative ideas are explored, concepts are expanded, and problems can be overcome with deeper understanding.

Downstreaming, or the process of transforming an idea into a tangible product or service, becomes a critical step following the research. This does not only involve prototype development and trials but requires comprehension of the market and its demands. Downstream ensures that post-research impacts can be found in the form of products or services that improve our daily lives.

When research is applied well, creativity and innovation grow organically. In an ever-changing business world, competitive attributes often come from the ability to stay innovative.
Research and downstream help create an environment where companies can continuously develop products and services that meet or even exceed market expectations. It's not just about creating something new, but also improving existing ones.

With a solid understanding of market trends, consumer needs, and competition through research can help entrepreneurs construct the right strategies to minimize possible risks.
Therefore, the i-Teams program is an answer to most challenges faced by the industry or community. By forming a team with diverse backgrounds and expertise, and then guiding them through a structured process, they can explore and provide many potential solutions.

Participants of the i-Teams program will gain real-life experience in entrepreneurship, and market research, as well as implementing academic research processes in practical applications.

With a legacy of over 10 years, i-Teams has successfully expanded its transfer initiatives worldwide, fostering collaborations with various universities to strengthen the local entrepreneur ecosystems.

"Institut Teknologi Bandung as a pioneer in Indonesia is proud to partner with the Cambridge i-Teams team and the Center for Global Equality as part of ASEAN i-Teams to apply this transformative program both within the university and the city of Bandung," an official statement from LPIK ITB stated.

Source: LPIK ITB

Reporter: Anggun Nindita
Translator: Kezia Hosana
Editor: Hanifa Juliana (Urban and Regional Planning, 2020)