In a move to encourage innovation and commercialization of novel technology NASA has been pushing its Langley Research Center Technology Transfer Expansion Program through outreach sessions conducted by Katrina Young, (program lead) quite frequently.
The target focused on by the Hampton based research center is university programs, businesses, and entrepreneurs typically in Virginia, USA. Ms. Young justifies her focus on Virginia on the growth of aerospace and tech companies in the region, which could highly benefit from the advanced and highly researched technology developed and owned by NASA.
Companies can apply for a license to use NASA’s technology by choosing from the patent portfolio on NASA’s Technology Transfer Portal which hosts more than 1,200 technologies. Then an online application can be filed for a license, three licenses are offered – standard commercial license, evaluation license, and a startup license. After an application is accepted an agreement will be agreed and signed upon. The royalties are a major aspect of the agreement which will typically fall between 3% - 7%.
The program has proved extremely successful, with over 2,000 spin-off technologies since 1976 that have been produced as a result of the technology transfer program. Some if these include heat resistant racing suits and Space Shuttle tires and seats.
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