As Business Development Manager, Sarvela works with people inside and outside the University to commercialize new products. She helps entrepreneurs develop business strategies and conduct market research for their new or expanding businesses. As Business Development Manager, Sarvela works with people inside and outside the University to commercialize new products. She helps entrepreneurs develop business strategies and conduct market research for their new or expanding businesses.
But another role is taking up much of her time these days. Sarvela is also responsible for managing NRRI’s intellectual property portfolio—one that is growing steadily as NRRI researchers develop new products and processes. Her role as liaison smoothes the path between NRRI management and staff and the University’s Office of Technology Commercialization.
Sarvela came to UMD’s NRRI over four years ago with expertise in economic and community development. Her background covers finance, marketing, real estate, accounting, human resources and organizational development. And she’s still learning. Sarvela is enrolled in UMD’s Doctorate of Education – Teaching and Learning program.
“I am very interested in how K-12 education prepares learners to contribute to society—specifically, how social and emotional learning ties to academic and real life success,” says Sarvela.
One of her best experiences so far at NRRI has been in working with foundations and local economic development leaders to provide grant money for a Product Development Fund.
“This is really exciting because it gives entrepreneurs and small business owners access to NRRI’s expertise in product and process development,” says Sarvela. “It really gives their business a strong start and a partnership they can trust through the years.”