Scientists and researchers are at the heart of solving the world’s most pressing problems. From harnessing AI to breakthroughs in healthcare, the answers often begin in the lab. Yet too many bold ideas never make it to the people who need them most.

That’s why Battelle has partnered with MassChallenge to launch their 2025 Battelle Innovation Gathering (BIG), a program designed to help scientists translate discoveries into real-world impact.

A Decade of Innovation, Evolving for What’s Next

Since 2010, BIG has been a cornerstone of Battelle’s innovation culture. The initiative gives employees the opportunity to showcase bold ideas, connect with peers, and explore new paths to commercialization.

The 2025 edition builds on that legacy with a new twist. MassChallenge is bringing its proven startup acceleration frameworks to help participants strengthen their business fluency, practice customer discovery, and communicate value in ways that resonate with stakeholders and industry partners.

“We’re thrilled to support Battelle’s mission by helping researchers turn big ideas into real-world outcomes,” said Robby Bitting, Chief of Staff at MassChallenge. “Our role is to equip them with the commercialization tools and connections that can accelerate their path to impact.”

From the Lab to the Marketplace

Over the course of the program, participants work with MassChallenge experts and mentors to:

• Frame their innovations around real-world problems worth solving
• Identify customer pain points and map complex stakeholder environments
• Translate technical breakthroughs into viable business models
• Build compelling stories that inspire action and investment

The program culminates at the Battelle Innovation Gathering later this fall, where participants will pitch their solutions, share posters, and connect with potential champions from industry and beyond.

Bridging Science and Industry

New to this year’s program are industry challenge statements, problem areas co-developed with external partners. These challenges guide participants to align their research with specific commercial opportunities and emerging market needs.

By connecting innovation to real demand, Battelle and MassChallenge are not only helping teams build stronger ideas. They’re speeding up the path to implementation.

“We are building the bridge between technology innovation and solving specific pain points for customers in the market,” said Battelle Technical Fellow Justin Sanchez who sponsors the BIG program. “This program is about developing and showcasing our abilities to deliver technologies that people want to buy today and into the future.”

Looking Ahead: From Innovation to Impact

Science has the power to change everything, but only if it leaves the lab. Through the BIG program, Battelle and MassChallenge are helping researchers take that leap. It’s not just about commercialization. It’s about building a culture where big ideas grow, spread, and scale.

Because the next world-changing solution might already exist. It just needs the right path forward.