While the distinction between basic and applied research is often vague, opportunities to commercialize new knowledge can come from both. University researchers, entrepreneurs, and even technologists and managers in private companies can often intermediate between knowledge and commercial products, and even help push a-priori unspecific and unpredictable outcomes towards profitable ventures. Who are the people that can do this? How can we move them from the edges of the entrepreneurial ecosystem to the forefront? How can we create world-class research that balances academic excellence with a persistent commitment to social, economic and environmental progress?