The Office of Technology Licensing (OTL) empowers the transfer of Georgia Tech technology from lab to marketplace, promoting societal benefit and generating royalty revenue. Our licensing process is designed to ensure a collaborative and smooth path from interest to agreement. After an inventor has submitted a new invention disclosure, OTL evaluates their innovation and files for intellectual property protection. The step-by-step guide to license Georgia Tech technologies follows these key stages:
- Technology Marketing to connect with industry partners
- Commercialization plan detailing the pathway to market
- Term sheet addressing key licensing terms
- License negotiations to finalize the license agreement
- License Compliance to monitor licensee’s performance
Connect innovations with industry partners
Define the pathway to market
Partner with an existing company to bring your technology to market
Build a Georgia Tech startup to commercialize your technology
Finalize the license agreement
Monitor performance and progress
Licensing Process
Technology Marketing
Once intellectual property protection is in place, OTL works to market your innovation to potential industry partners and licensees. In collaboration with inventors, we develop non-confidential summaries and position the technology to highlight its value and practical applications. The focus is on identifying partners with the expertise to advance the innovation.
Commercialization Plan
OTL works with inventors to define a clear path forward based on the technology and market opportunity. This includes evaluating potential applications, identifying target industries, and determining whether commercialization is best pursued through an existing company or a startup.
Choosing a Commercialization Path
License to a Company If an existing company is best positioned to develop the technology, OTL identifies and engages potential licensees. This path focuses on transferring the technology to an organization with the capabilities to bring it to market efficiently.
Launch a Startup
If a startup is the most effective route, OTL supports the formation of a Georgia Tech-affiliated company. Inventors may leverage programs across the commercialization ecosystem to develop the business, execute on milestones, and advance the technology toward market adoption.
Term Sheet Development
As a partner or startup path is established, OTL outlines the key business and licensing terms that will guide the agreement. This includes financial structure, rights, and development expectations. The term sheet establishes alignment and serves as the foundation for formal negotiations.
License Negotiations
OTL leads negotiations to finalize the licensing agreement. Terms are structured based on the technology, its market potential, and the capabilities of the partner or startup. The goal is to support successful development and long-term impact.
License Compliance
Following execution, OTL monitors performance and adherence to the agreement. This includes tracking milestones, managing reporting requirements, and overseeing royalty payments in accordance with Georgia Tech policies.