The UMKC Office of Technology Transfer explores the commercial potential of your discovery. When we determine you have viable technology, we help you bring it to market, either by licensing it to an existing company or by helping you start a business of your own.

Licensing

Some university inventors choose to license their discovery to an existing company, so they can continue to further their research and focus on their teaching.

Any company that wants to bring your product to market will need a license from the Office of Technology Transfer. This license gives them permission to adapt, promote, and sell your invention.

Marketing the invention is key to successful licensing—and you can make a valuable contribution. As many as 70 percent of licensees have an existing relationship with the inventor.

The Office of Technology Transfer will handle the licensing negotiations to make sure you, your department, and the university receive fair compensation for your work.

Technology Commercialization

You may choose to turn your discovery into a startup of your own. First, you will need to license your invention through the Office of Technology Transfer before turning your discovery into a startup.

The UMKC Innovation Center helps emerging and existing business owners, whether they are students, faculty or community based, hone their business basics, evaluate commercialization opportunities, and connect with the right resources at the right time.