Technology Transfer Program
This program is dedicated to helping University of Alberta reseachers and qualified inventors in the region transfer technology ideas to the marketplace. The program builds on the strong track record of the technology transfer unit, established in 1994 first as the Industry Liaison Office.

This program is focused on the technology of a business venture, but it overlaps with the other TEC Edmonton programs due to the integral links with other elements such as the people behind the technology (entrepreneur development) and the potential business ventures (company development) these technologies may create.

Technology transfer is the term for sharing ideas and inventions with society through the marketplace. Also called technology commercialization, this process can be the best method for bringing certain inventions to society because the technology may require costly development before it can be available. Those costs are often most likely to be covered by the private sector if there is a potential for economic returns. 

Top 5 Reasons for Technology Transfer:

• Commercialization brings the results of new research to society.
• Technology Transfer support and its potential revenues help the University recruit, retain and reward top faculty.
• Technology Transfer stimulates closer partnerships between the University and industry.
• Commercialization activity directly generates jobs, income and economic growth for the region.
• Research Commercialization helps diversify the economy by contributing to knowledge-based industries.
• When the technology originated from University research, the University may benefit from the economic returns to the original faculties and departments.

Staff in our Technology Transfer Program work with researchers to identify innovations and inventions that have commercial potential.  We provide expertise and assistance to manage the protection of intellectual property and facilitate the processes that can lead to the commercialization of an invention.  The University of Alberta’s Technology Transfer team is among Canada’s most effective organizations for university technology transfer.

For more information, visit the Technology Transfer Program.