Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) are a widely accepted framework for evaluating the maturity of new technologies. Among these levels, TRL 1 stands as the foundational stage where science meets the potential for real-world applications.

But what exactly does TRL 1 mean, and how can companies leverage it to transform a scientific concept into a commercial product? Let’s break down the journey from basic research to market-ready innovation.

What is TRL 1?

TRL 1 represents the very first step in the technology development lifecycle. It focuses purely on basic scientific principles—observing natural phenomena and documenting their behavior in a laboratory setting. At this stage, companies and researchers are exploring new theories, often without any immediate thought of practical applications or prototypes.

Key Features of TRL 1:

• Scientific Exploration: Research is theoretical, focusing on uncovering new principles in fields like physics, chemistry, or biology.

• No Prototype or Product: TRL 1 is about documenting discoveries—there is no tangible product or service created yet.

• Uncertainty: At this stage, the future applications of the technology are unknown, and the path to commercialization is not yet clear.

Why is TRL 1 Crucial for Innovation?

Every groundbreaking technology starts at TRL 1. Whether it’s the discovery of graphene or the early principles of quantum mechanics, the early stages of scientific exploration lay the groundwork for future innovations. Companies that invest in TRL 1 research are essentially planting the seeds for disruptive technologies that could change the world.

But it’s not just about observation; companies use this stage to:

• Understand and validate the core scientific principles behind emerging technologies.

• Secure intellectual property by patenting early-stage research.

• Explore potential future applications, which will evolve in later TRLs.

How companies use TRL 1 to reach the market

At TRL 1, companies focus on the science behind the technology, but they also need a strategic roadmap to move forward. Here’s how successful companies approach this crucial phase:

1. Investing in Fundamental Research

Companies often fund or partner with academic institutions to conduct high-risk, high-reward research. For instance, IBM has been investing heavily in quantum computing at TRL 1 to uncover the scientific principles behind quantum mechanics. The company understands that early-stage research is critical to unlock the future of quantum technology.

• Example: Google invested in quantum research, beginning with basic principles at TRL 1, and quickly moved to building functional quantum systems. They have since made major strides in demonstrating quantum supremacy.

2. Building Strong Partnerships

Many companies at TRL 1 collaborate with universities and research labs to share the risk and cost of exploring unknown scientific territories. These partnerships help accelerate the move from basic research to a viable concept.

• Example: Siemens collaborates with German universities on AI and machine learning research at TRL 1. Through these collaborations, they gain access to cutting-edge research while helping shape the future of industrial automation.

3. Attracting Investment

TRL 1 research can attract venture capital and public funding, especially in deep tech sectors like biotech, quantum computing, and clean energy. Investors are drawn to the disruptive potential of these technologies, even if the commercial path is not yet clear.

• Example: Deep Science Ventures (DSV) specializes in funding companies at TRL 1 in deep tech areas. They help transition scientific discoveries into technologies with viable commercial potential.

 Case Studies: From TRL 1 to Market

Let’s take a look at how companies have successfully navigated from TRL 1 research to marketable products:

1. The Graphene Flagship

The Graphene Flagship, a project funded by Horizon 2020 (now Horizon Europe), aimed to bring graphene from TRL 1 to commercial applications. Graphene, a material just one atom thick, has the potential to revolutionize industries from electronics to energy storage.

• TRL 1 Activities: Researchers at universities and research centers around Europe conducted experiments to confirm the properties of graphene, such as its electrical conductivity and strength.

• Outcome: The Graphene Flagship has successfully pushed graphene technology to TRL 5-6, with applications ranging from flexible electronics to advanced batteries.

2. Quantum Computing Research at IBM

IBM has long been at the forefront of quantum computing, a technology that started with basic quantum mechanics research at TRL 1. Their work in this field is a prime example of how companies take fundamental science and move it to the market.

• TRL 1 Activities: Theoretical studies on quantum superposition and entanglement laid the groundwork for IBM’s quantum research.

• Outcome: IBM has developed a quantum computing platform, now available through the IBM Quantum Experience, and continues to push the envelope on quantum algorithms.

3. Gene Therapy at Novartis

Novartis’s gene therapy research, such as the Kymriah treatment for leukemia, began with foundational research into CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing at TRL 1.

• TRL 1 Activities: Scientists focused on understanding the basic principles of gene editing, paving the way for genomic manipulation.

• Outcome: The research led to clinical trials, with Kymriah now being one of the first FDA-approved gene therapies on the market.

Funding Sources for TRL 1 Research

Securing funding at TRL 1 is essential for companies to transition from scientific exploration to tangible products. Here are some key funding sources that support TRL 1 research:

1. Horizon Europe

Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship program for research and innovation, provides significant funding to projects at TRL 1. It supports companies and academic institutions exploring cutting-edge technologies in fields like clean energy, AI, and healthcare.

• Example: The Quantum Flagship and Graphene Flagship programs have received multi-million-euro investments to drive early-stage research in quantum computing and advanced materials.

2. European Research Council (ERC)

The European Research Council (ERC) funds high-risk, high-reward research across various scientific fields, including projects at TRL 1. ERC grants are crucial for advancing fundamental research with potential for future technological breakthroughs.

3. Venture Capital and Private Investment

Venture capital firms like Deep Science Ventures and Data Collective DCVC specialize in funding deep-tech startups at TRL 1. These investors are looking for the next big scientific breakthrough that could lead to transformative products in industries like healthcare, energy, and quantum computing.

TRL 1 is the starting point for every major technological breakthrough. While this stage is centered on fundamental science and theoretical principles, it plays a crucial role in shaping the technologies of tomorrow. For companies, TRL 1 is where they can explore disruptive ideas, protect intellectual property, and secure funding to bring their discoveries to market. By strategically navigating through the TRL stages, companies can transform basic research into innovative, market-ready technologies that have the potential to change industries.

Ready to Start Your Journey from TRL 1?

At Techfinders.io, we help connect innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors to accelerate the journey from scientific principles to marketable technologies. Whether you’re working on groundbreaking AI or clean energy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to learn how we can support your technology development journey.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rui Leal de Oliveira

Digital Marketing Specialist