2014 a record-breaking year for U-M Tech Transfer

Topics:

The University of Michigan announced Monday that fiscal year 2014 was a record-breaking year of tech transfer performance as reflected in the number of new inventions, agreements and startups launched — all derived from U-M research discoveries.

Researchers reported 439 new inventions in FY ’14, up from last year’s 421, demonstrating the growing participation and success of U-M faculty in tech transfer activities.

U-M Tech Transfer also recorded 148 option and license agreements compared to 108 agreements a year ago. In addition, Tech Transfer launched 14 startups, bringing the number of businesses launched in the last five years to 55.

“It is gratifying to see these record-setting metrics for not just one but several indicators of tech transfer performance,” said Ken Nisbet, associate vice president for research–technology transfer.

“This is a reflection of the creativity of our researchers, the resourcefulness of our tech transfer team, and the contributions from our partners in the university, business, government and entrepreneurial communities.”

The record number of agreements this year is significant, as it represents an increase in engagement with companies large and small that find value in technology coming out of U-M research.

For example, Wilson Sporting Goods Co., licensed wireless motion sensor technology for sports equipment, and Michigan Aerospace licensed technology that can be used to predict ice formation for airborne and ground applications.

U-M startups are launched with the guidance and resources of Tech Transfer’s Venture Center. The Venture Center is a one-stop hub for entrepreneurs and investors looking for startup opportunities based on U-M research.

This year’s startups include Mia Motors, which makes energy storage and wireless charging systems for electric vehicles; ONL Therapeutics, which is developing therapeutics for retinal diseases; and Court Innovations, creator of online guided negotiations between courts and citizens.

In FY ’14, 132 U.S patents were issued to the university, up from 128 in FY ’13; and $18.5 million in licensing revenues were received, up from $14.4 million in FY ’13 thereby providing funds to reinvest in research and innovation.

“With more than $1.3 billion in research expenditures annually, U-M is one of the world’s leading research universities,” said S. Jack Hu, U-M’s interim vice president for research. “These results in technology transfer highlight not only the growing productivity of our faculty in generating innovative ideas through their research, but also our ongoing commitment to making sure that these ideas will benefit our state and our nation in the form of new or better products, processes, and services.”

The 14th annual Celebrate Invention reception will take pace at 3 p.m. Oct. 28 in the Michigan League Ballroom. (Photo by Leisa Thompson)

The university will recognize the accomplishments of faculty and researchers engaged in the technology transfer process at the 14th annual Celebrate Invention reception at 3 p.m. Oct. 28.

Kiosks representing the vast range of innovation and entrepreneurship from Tech Transfer activities will be on display at this event, to be held at the Michigan League Ballroom. Admission is free but registration is required.

Tags:

Comments

  1. Carol Amster
    on October 6, 2014 at 11:06 am

    Ken congratulations on this milestone. I know Herb would have been overjoyed with your continuing success

  2. Ashish Gawade
    on October 7, 2014 at 2:55 am

    This is amazing! Kudos to the UofM Tech transfer office.
    Cheers!
    Ashish Gawade
    MBA 2005 (Ross)

  3. Nilton Renno
    on October 7, 2014 at 10:14 pm

    This news is outstanding! Congratulations to the OTT Leaders, Mentors, Licensing Specialists, and staff that makes this place so special!

Leave a comment

Commenting is closed for this article. Please read our comment guidelines for more information.