Turning University Innovation into Investable Climate Adaptation and Resilience Solutions

Universities are producing valuable science and technology. Investors, industry, and communities are increasingly looking for solutions to address climate adaptation and resilience challenges. Yet many promising innovations never make it beyond the lab.

A recent report led by Duke University and Tailwind Futures examines the critical gaps that prevent research breakthroughs from becoming real-world solutions and outlines practical steps to help bridge those divides. The guide was informed by an April 21, 2026 workshop held at Duke in DC during DC Climate Week, which convened university innovation leaders, investors, federal agencies, and resilience practitioners to explore how stronger connections, clearer pathways, and more effective partnerships can accelerate the adoption of resilience-focused technologies. Duke OEP’s Sharlini Sankaran participated in the workshop and contributed to the report.

The publication highlights key findings, real-world examples, and actionable recommendations for universities, funders, investors, public agencies, and industry partners seeking to move promising adaptation and resilience innovations from discovery to deployment—ensuring communities can benefit from solutions when they need them most.

OEP’s Sharlini Sankaran, Ph.D. co-authored this article, sharing key takeaways and practical next steps for translating climate adaptation and resilience innovations into practice.

Read the full article: Turning University Innovation into Investable Climate Adaptation and Resilience Solutions