SHARP Series Session 2: Value Creation
12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Research Solutions Institute (RSI) Invites You to
SHARP Series Session 2: Value Creation
Series Description: Strategies for High-impact Academic Research Proposals (SHARP) is more than training. It’s a strategic investment in your research career. A dynamic, in-person training series, SHARP equips faculty with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to craft competitive, compelling research proposals. Whether you're new to federal funding or looking to sharpen your edge, SHARP offers hands-on guidance and personalized support to help you succeed. The second session in the series is the Value Creation session that helps you sharpen your research vision and communicate your impact.
What you’ll gain: • Clarity on the need your research addresses • Focusing your approach • Communicating the benefits to stakeholders • Identifying the competition and how you stand out
Format: In person, 90-min, hands-on training session designed to help you scope your ideas, refine your elevator pitch, and frame your work for maximum impact using the proven NABC framework (Need, Approach, Benefits, Competition).
Who should attend and why: Faculty across disciplines who are actively preparing proposals and/or project pitches for federal research funding — including NIH, NSF, DOE, NEH, and others. Federal funding is competitive — SHARP gives you the edge.
SHARP Series Session 2: Value Creation
November 18, 2025 | 12-1:30 pm | Unity Hall 405
Session Co-ordinator Bio: The session will be conducted by Executive in Residence, Leonard Polizzotto. Len Polizzotto is recognized for his successful track record of business development for technology firms. A centerpiece of his work has been the study, application, and teaching of innovation best practices, including “Value Factor Analysis” for maximizing the value of new products. He was Corporate Vice President for Business Development at SRI International, where he partnered with Curt Carlson on developing and refining the Value Creation methodology. Since then he has run multiple Value Creation Forums for faculty and students at both WPI and Northeastern University.