FedEx Institute of Technology
Emerging Technology
The FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT) is the applied research arm of the University
of Memphis and the home for emerging technology innovation in the Mid-South. Through
FIT, FedEx leads our campus in advanced research efforts, functions as a catalyst
for new ideas and guides the future of workforce development.
FRONTIERS Program
The FedEx Institute of Technology launched the FRONTIERS Program in 2021 to connect
UofM faculty and students with real-world innovation challenges from FedEx. Through
applied research in areas such as pricing, automation, data modeling, and process
improvement, teams develop solutions aligned with FedEx priorities. Current projects
support multiple FedEx operating companies and create hands-on opportunities for students
to contribute directly to the company’s future-focused initiatives.
Patents2Products
Patents2Products is a joint initiative between the University of Memphis and Epicenter
that supports post-doctoral entrepreneurs working to turn patented technologies into
viable companies. Fellows receive salary support, startup resources, workspace, and
access to mentors while advancing their venture. The program provides tailored entrepreneurship
training and guidance, helping founders navigate market validation, business planning,
and early-stage development within a supportive innovation ecosystem.
UMRF Research Park
The UMRF Research Park, launched in 2019 by the FedEx Institute of Technology, serves
as a hub for innovation and economic growth in the University District. Designed to
support emerging technologies and community-driven development, the park connects
industry, researchers, and entrepreneurs. Its mission is to attract talent, foster
collaboration, and strengthen the region’s capacity for research-driven opportunity
and forward-looking business development.
UMRF Ventures
UMRF Ventures is a student-staffed company created through a partnership between the
University of Memphis and FedEx to provide meaningful, flexible employment for students.
By offering well-paid positions aligned with academic schedules, the program helps
students gain experience while pursuing their degrees. With hundreds of students employed,
UMRF Ventures supports workforce development and often leads to full-time opportunities
with industry partners.
FedEx | ROXO
Collaborating closely with FedEx Institute of Technology, FedEx introduced autonomous
last-mile delivery at the University of Memphis through the deployment of Roxo, an
innovative autonomous delivery robot. The development teams from FedEx and DEKA Research
and Development Corp worked together on this groundbreaking project. Roxo underwent
extensive testing at the University of Memphis and in the City of Memphis over several
days to assess its technological viability and effectiveness in enhancing last-mile
delivery capabilities.