Entrepreneurial Assistance - Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.

The Iowa State Employee Entrepreneur:

Starting a Business Using Technology Developed at Iowa State

New companies based on university technologies are recognized by the university and the State as an engine for economic development, an important outcome of the goals in the university’s strategic plan. There are many resources within the university to assist entrepreneurs, and any of these resources may be your starting point for discussion of your new business interest. When the technology of interest for your business is one that should be or has been disclosed to OIPTT/ISURF, it is best to contact us first so that together we can appropriately manage the technology, including methods and procedures for protecting and licensing the technology.

What to expect when working with the Office of Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer (OIPTT) and the Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc. (ISURF)

Initial Meeting Between Entrepreneur and OIPTT/ISURF

An initial meeting is helpful for all parties to discuss the technology, how the business intends to utilize the technology, what role OIPTT/ISURF serves and what resources are available. It is a time for the entrepreneur to ask questions and become familiar with the process. Topics of discussion might include:

· The business concept of the entrepreneur and utilization of the technology in the business products and services.

· OIPTT/ISURF mission.

· The process to obtain rights to the technology and the agreements related to protecting the technology and obtaining rights (CDA, MTA, Option, License, other)

· The patent prosecution process.

· University policies and guidelines and issues related to conflict of interest, including the process of negotiation when a university employee is the entrepreneur.

· Ensure that there are no overlaps with any other existing or planned commitments to third parties (research, consulting, and other).

· Begin the development of a plan to determine the extent of the use of University resources, personnel, services, and space to enhance the technology for the company.

University Resources Available to the Entrepreneur

The following assistance may be available to entrepreneurs:

· ISURF development funds may be available to the inventor’s lab to further develop the technology.

· ISURF referrals to legal, technical, business or management consultants. ISURF may pay up to $5,000 for legal consultation on intellectual property matters.

· Campus space and equipment for your business’ use: ISU Research Park, ISU Incubator, ISU Co-lab, and renting campus lab space.

· Pappajohn Entrepreneurship Center develops business plans and strategies for companies.

· IPRT Company Assistance Program provides matching funds for product development.

· OIPTT assists companies with SBIR and STTR applications.

· For more information, go to: www.industry.iastate.edu