Increasing Value Through Technology Scouting | RTI Innovation Advisors

Share This Post

Since 1956, family-owned company VT Industries has been making commercial and residential doors and countertops. Historically, the company sourced the fireproof core for its commercial doors from an outside supplier. VT was unhappy with product quality and availability, however. The company wanted to explore the possibility of manufacturing its own fireproof door cores.

VT Industries consulted with the Iowa State University Center for Industrial Research and Service (the Center). The Center brought our group in to oversee a technology scouting project for VT Industries. We researched and identified materials with the greatest potential, conducted due diligence, and recommended two options. After selecting one of the two options, VT Industries developed a proprietary formulation and manufacturing process based on it.

Our technology scouting ensured that VT Industries understood potential materials available. And our strategic advising resulted in significant economic and financial impact, including

  • a $10 million investment in a new plant
  • the addition of 12 skilled professionals to manufacturer the material for use in VT Industries’ fireproof doors and the construction industry.

The estimated project impact was $24 million over three years. This included $2 million in new sales in the first year.

More To Explore

Uncategorized

Why Build an Innovation Ecosystem?

In collaboration with clients, we work to strengthen their innovation ecosystem to become the connective tissue that allows innovation to thrive. When we connect clients–commercial and government–to their innovation ecosystems, we also solidify their competitive positions. Read about our work to create a roadmap to support Guatemala’s innovation ecosystem

image of healthy foods in heart shped bowl to signal foods impact good mood
Food and Agriculture

Energy & Mood Management Through Food

Our food and beverage clients want to know about ingredient options to address consumers’ interest in energy and mood management. While specific needs vary with each client, they share a primary challenge around understanding ingredients that impact mood. Learn how we help clients know if an ingredient is effective.

Let's get started today!