Thomas M. Katona

Thomas M. Katona is an Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), where he has taught since 2014. He holds dual appointments in the Orfalea College of Business and College of Engineering, utilizing project-based learning to bridge entrepreneurship with technical disciplines. His work includes co-founding startups focused on light-emitting diodes and lighting systems, with experience in venture capital, government funding, and product development.

• Faculty Director, Innovation Sandbox (technology demonstration/maker space)
• Specializes in cross-college entrepreneurship curriculum development
• Focuses on leveraging customer needs and user experience in business models

Dr. Katona emphasizes the integration of engineering rigor and creative problem-solving, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches to innovation.

He contributes to Cal Poly’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and has secured significant funding across startup models, including $100M in venture capital and $10M in SBIR grants.