​From Ideas to Ventures: Navigating the Path to Success

​How does an invention or research idea become a viable venture? What does it take to build value, find the right funding and connect with the people who can help move an idea forward?

​Join the Northeastern NAI Chapter for a practical conversation with Edward (Ed) Paik, CFA®, CFP®, CPWA®, a consultant, wealth advisor and former institutional investor with more than 30 years of experience in investment management and financial planning. Ed will share insights on navigating the business and investment ecosystem, including company formation, funding, building value, communicating with investors and bankers, and leveraging Boston’s entrepreneurial community.

​The session will include a presentation by Ed followed by a moderated Q&A with Vincent Harris.

​Edward (Ed) Paik, CFA®, CFP®, CPWA® is a consultant, wealth advisor and former institutional investor with more than 30 years of experience at Columbia Management Group, Fidelity Investments and East Horizon Investments. He advises individuals and corporations on value optimization and financial planning, with industry experience spanning power, clean energy, technology and real estate. Ed holds degrees from Columbia University.

​Northeastern NAI Student Breakthrough Challenge

​The second half of the program will showcase the next generation of inventors and innovators. Three student finalists will present their ideas to a panel of judges, including Ed Paik. Each finalist will have approximately 8 minutes—3 minutes to pitch, followed by 5 minutes of Q&A and feedback.

​Come hear promising ideas, gain practical insights into entrepreneurship and commercialization, and support Northeastern’s emerging innovators.

​Northeastern NAI Student Breakthrough Challenge — Abstract Submission

​Format: One single-sided page, 12-point Times New Roman, one-inch margins minimum. PDF preferred (Word accepted).

​Abstract Contents: Title, keywords (3–6), problem/need, innovation/breakthrough, technical approach, results, benefit/impact, and student contribution.

​Deadline: Abstracts due by September 28. Submissions received after this date will not be considered.

​Submit to: o.obi@northeastern.edu

​Finalists: Three finalists will be selected and notified by October 7. Finalists will present a 3-minute elevator pitch at the NAI Chapter meeting, followed by approximately 5 minutes of judge Q&A and feedback. Monetary prizes will be awarded.