Research Commercialisation

Alternative Routes for Research Commercialization OR Research Commercialization Options

When it comes to turning innovative research into products or services, there are several pathways researchers can explore. Each commercialization option provides different advantages depending on the nature of the innovation, its target market, and the goals of the researcher. At our Technology Transfer Office (TTO), we help you navigate these options, offering guidance and support to ensure that your research has the greatest possible impact.

Licensing

One of the most common and effective routes for commercializing research is licensing. In this model, your intellectual property (IP) is licensed to an established company that can bring it to market. Licensing agreements allow you to retain ownership of your invention while benefiting from a partner’s resources, market access, and expertise.

Key benefits include

Revenue Generation

Earn royalties or upfront fees for the use of your IP.

Wider Reach

Leverage the licensee’s industry connections and marketing power to scale your innovation.

Risk Reduction

Share the risks associated with product development and market entry.

Our TTO assists in identifying potential licensees, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring that your IP is protected throughout the process.

Creating a Spin-off Company

For researchers looking to maintain more control over the development and commercialization of their innovation, forming a spin-off company can be an attractive option. This route involves creating a company dedicated to advancing and marketing the technology or service based on your research.

Key benefits include

Control and Flexibility

You maintain control over the direction and commercialization strategy of your innovation.

Equity Ownership

As a founder, you can retain significant equity in the new venture, allowing for long-term financial rewards.

Direct Market Engagement

A spin-off allows you to engage directly with customers and industries, fostering closer connections and faster iterations of your product.

Our TTO provides support in business planning, securing funding, and connecting you with investors, mentors to help launch your spin-off.

Industry Collaboration and Partnerships

Collaborating directly with industry partners can accelerate the commercialization of your research. By forming strategic partnerships with companies, you can co-develop your innovation, share resources, and tap into new markets.

Collaboration can take many forms, including

Joint Ventures

Partner with companies to co-develop and co-market new products or technologies.

R&D Collaborations

Work with industry partners to continue developing your research, with the company providing financial or technical support.

Sponsored Research

Secure funding from industry to further advance your research with an eye toward commercial application.

Industry partnerships allow you to leverage the strengths of established businesses while maintaining a level of involvement in the commercialization process.

Consulting and Advisory Roles

If you prefer not to license or create a spin-off but still want to see your research in use, becoming a consultant or advisor to companies interested in your technology is a viable option. As an expert in your field, you can offer your knowledge to companies that want to implement your research or solve specific challenges.

Key benefits include

Expertise Monetization

Earn revenue from your specialized knowledge without the need to directly commercialize a product.

Low Risk

Consulting allows you to contribute to commercialization efforts without the risks associated with business operations.

Our TTO can help you establish consulting agreements, ensuring that your IP is protected while you offer your expertise.

Open Innovation Programs

In today's innovation landscape, many companies are turning to open innovation models, where they collaborate with external researchers and institutions to bring new ideas to market.

Participating in open innovation initiatives can provide

Broader Exposure

Increase the visibility of your research across industries and geographies.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

Work with diverse teams to enhance the commercial potential of your innovation.

Funding and Support

Gain access to funding, mentorship, and development resources offered by open innovation programs.

Our TTO can guide you through participating in open innovation programs and ensure that your IP is safeguarded in these collaborative settings.

Our Services

At the TTO, we take a collaborative approach to research commercialisation, working closely with researchers to ensure a smooth transition from idea to market-ready innovation. 

Intellectual Property (IP) Management

Protecting your research and innovation is the first step towards commercialisation. Our team of IP experts helps you navigate the complexities of patenting, copyright, and trademark processes to ensure your discoveries are fully protected. We provide guidance on:

Market Assessment and Feasibility Studies

Understanding the market potential of your innovation is key to a successful commercialisation strategy. We assist in conducting market research, feasibility studies, and competitive analyses to evaluate the commercial viability of your research. Our services include:

Industry Partnerships

Our TTO acts as a bridge between academia and industry, facilitating partnerships with companies, investors, and entrepreneurs interested in your research. We help match your innovation with the right industry partners, supporting collaboration and investment opportunities. These partnerships can lead to:

Business Development and Support

For researchers looking to start their own companies or develop their research into a marketable product, we provide extensive business development support. Our TTO team offers guidance on:

Funding Opportunities

Securing the necessary funding is crucial to moving your research forward. We help you identify and access various funding sources, including government grants, venture capital, and industry partnerships. Our TTO provides:

Success Stories

Cliomuse

Skills through action – based innovation – driven entrepreneurship

Meton

Skills through action – based innovation – driven entrepreneurship

VitrinaBox

Skills through action – based innovation – driven entrepreneurship

Run4More

Skills through action – based innovation – driven entrepreneurship

Start Commercialising Your Research Today

If you’re ready to take the next step in commercialising your research, we’re here to help. Whether you’re exploring the potential of your research results or ready to launch a spin-off company, our team at the Technology Transfer Office offers the expertise and support you need to succeed.