Driving Innovation Forward
From next-generation battery technology to cutting-edge electric mobility solutions, UT Research Park is home to companies shaping the future of how the world moves. As momentum builds across our campus, leaders like Safire, Volkswagen, and the Spark Innovation Center's Mobility Lab contribute to a growing ecosystem centered on progress in mobility.
Together, they reflect a community pushing transportation into new territory by exploring smarter systems, cleaner energy, and more connected ways of moving people and ideas.
Your gateway to collaboration with the University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm is located just across the Tennessee River from UT’s flagship campus in Knoxville. We offer an ideal location for companies and entrepreneurs to collaborate with the talent at UT, and we provide the right connections to foster success. Contact us today to learn more about our facilities, tools and services.
The university's Innovation Gateways include:
- Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
- Future Mobility
- Energy and Environment
- Artificial Intelligence
- Human Health and Wellness
Driving Innovation Forward
Applications for the 2026 Spark Accelerator are officially live!
Is your company building in the advanced energy industry? This 12‑week program begins August 24 and supports early‑stage, innovation‑driven startups ready to refine their technology and prepare for market entry.
Participants will join the fifth Spark Accelerator cohort and receive a $15,000 stipend, advanced prototyping support, expert mentoring, specialized workshops, and direct access to customers, investors, and strategic partners.
By the end of the program, companies will have a full business plan, a minimum viable product or roadmap, a solid financial strategy, and an investor‑ready pitch.
Are you ready to accelerate your startup’s growth? Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Applications close May 27.
$339 million UT research expenditures (FY23)
38,000+ students at UT Knoxville
Average weighted GPA 4.19
365,000 SF built or under construction
15 Park tenants 800+ Employees
Spark Innovation Center
Tech startups typically face a longer runway to success and profitability than other companies. The Spark Innovation Center assists companies with the support they need to thrive in East Tennessee.
How can UT Research Park help your company succeed?
Explore how collaborations with the University of Tennessee
and locating a business in the park can shape the
future success of your company.
Greenways and Cherokee Landing
Outdoor enthusiasts will love UT Research Park. All are welcome to visit the park to enjoy the beautiful green spaces and archaeological preserve. Walk or jog the 2.2-mile section of greenway along the shoreline of Cherokee Farm, which connects to the Neyland Greenway and downtown Knoxville. Our partnership with Legacy Parks Foundation will provide even more green reasons to visit and do business here.
Partners in the park
UT Research Park hosts a steadily growing number of partner companies leveraging their presence in the park to forge stronger collaborations with the University of Tennessee.