All commercial prospects disclosed to Commercialisation are managed through a diligent, stepwise process. From initial disclosure, we assess:
- the commercial opportunity being presented, including identifying end users and key commercial partners
- the potential for IP protection
- funding required to bring the innovation to market
- the best business case to take the opportunity forward.
The process
- Contact is made by the researcher or research team.
- Researcher completes initial opportunity disclosure form. This is to identify:
- unmet need addressed by innovation
- key distinguishing features from current solution to problem addressed
- stage of development
- details of any previous disclosure and existing commercial arrangements.
- Project is allocated to an analyst to assess the opportunity. The assessment may include:
- prior art search
- desktop market research
- feedback from industry expert in consultation with researcher.
- Decision is made to either:
- not proceed at this stage: notification is sent to researcher and head of school, including summary of opportunity assessment. Opportunity may be considered after further development.
- commercialise: notification sent to researcher and head of school. Standard documents completed.
- If the decision has been made to commercialise, the commercialisation plan is developed and implemented.
- Opportunity for Kickstart funding through submission to Commercialisation Advisory Board.