The UWM Research Foundation (UWMRF) is a key player in promoting research and innovation at UW-Milwaukee. Established in 2006, it works closely with the UWM Foundation, Inc., to support groundbreaking research and foster a culture of innovation on campus. This would not be possible without the generous support of forward-thinking organizations and foundations, including the Bradley Foundation.

UWMRF offers a wide range of products and services to facilitate research and entrepreneurship. They provide resources for industries, such as intellectual property licensing and option agreements, strategic partnerships, and Panther Partnering opportunities. Researchers can benefit from the Catalyst Grant Program and the Inventor Portal, which offers a platform for showcasing their inventions.

Furthermore, UWMRF supports entrepreneurs through programs like the Bridge Grant Program and the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, providing guidance and counseling in entrepreneurship and innovation. They also collaborate with the Milwaukee Institute for Drug Discovery and offer technology transfer services. With a mission to transform research and innovation at UWM, UWMRF plays a vital role in creating an environment that attracts and nurtures innovative researchers.

They have played a significant part in UWM's designation as an R-1 research-intensive university, showcasing their commitment to advancing knowledge and supporting the UWM community