I Want to Start a Company
From Research to a Startup
In some cases, forming a company may provide a pathway for bringing a university-developed technology to the marketplace. Faculty, staff, and students may be interested in creating a startup based on an invention, software, or other intellectual property developed at CPP.
The Office of Research and Innovation can help you understand how University intellectual property policies and requirements may 起点传媒 as you explore this possibility.
Contact us early if you are considering forming a company around technology developed at CPP. You do not need to have a business plan or company already established before talking with us.
Using University Intellectual Property
Creating a company does not automatically give the company rights to intellectual property developed at CPP.
If the University has an ownership interest in technology that a startup wants to commercialize, the company will generally need an appropriate agreement with the University. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve a license or option giving the company rights to develop and commercialize the technology.
ORI can help determine the University’s interest in the intellectual property and coordinate the appropriate next steps.
Licensing Technology to a Startup
A startup may be considered as a potential licensee of University technology. A license can define the company’s rights to use the technology and may include provisions addressing such matters as:
- the scope of the rights granted;
- development and commercialization expectations;
- patent and other intellectual property expenses;
- licensing fees or royalties; and
- other obligations associated with commercialization.
The specific terms will depend on the technology, its stage of development, and the proposed commercialization plan.
Conflicts of Interest
Faculty or other University employees who have a financial interest or management role in a company associated with their University research may have conflict-of-interest or conflict-of-commitment responsibilities.
This does not necessarily prevent University employees from participating in a startup, but the relationship must be appropriately disclosed and managed. Additional considerations may arise if students are involved in the research, the company sponsors research at CPP, or University facilities and resources will be used.
Talk with ORI before committing University resources, involving students, or entering into research arrangements with a company in which you have a financial interest.
University and Company Activities Must Remain Distinct
A startup is a separate entity from the University. University facilities, equipment, personnel, funds, and other resources cannot automatically be used for company activities.
If a startup needs access to University facilities, equipment, research services, or personnel, appropriate University agreements and approvals may be required.
Keeping University research and company activities clearly separated helps protect the faculty member, the company, students, and the University.
Thinking About a Startup?
You don’t need to have all the answers before contacting us. If you are considering forming a company to commercialize technology developed through your work at CPP, contact the Office of Research and Innovation early in the process.
We can help you understand the intellectual property and research-compliance considerations and connect you with other University resources as appropriate.