Most innovations derived from UC research require alliances outside of the lab to make tangible results publicly available. This is can involve some or all of the following activities:

  • Identify opportunities: Researchers and lab directors can, with the help of campus technology licensing staff and commercial partners, survey and mine the scientific capabilities and intellectual property residing in UC laboratories so as to identify those that can be translated into products and services of value.
  • De-risk technology: Most inventions, even patented ones, require further evaluation, data gathering, proof-of-concept studies, or prototypes to demonstrate commercial potential.
  • Plan a business and raise finances: Startups based on UC technology must develop its entrepreneurial team, do market research to form a business plan, and secure investments.
  • Support business incubation: UC startups and nascent business spin-offs based on UC technology need support through the early stages of their creation and growth
  • Market the technology: Campus licensing staff market research and intellectual property to identify potential licensees and/or sponsors who can support patent costs and the technology development required to bring research to market.
  • Make early-stage investments: Most technologies require early-stage (proof-of-concept) funding and venture financing

Industry partnership & sponsorship

California Institutes for Science & Innovation

Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz)

The state office for economic development and job creation partners with UC to spur innovation and business growth in California.