Technology Transfer

Technology transfer is the external acquisition of technology, rather than the more common internal development of technology through R&D. The usual methods of technology transfer are

How it operates

The Technology Transfer service within Enterprise Ireland helps companies identify opportunities and negotiate agreements.

We invite participation from a wide range of sectors including: information & communications technologies, software, electronics, engineering, biotechnology, healthcare, food and environment www.envirocentre.ie

The service is suitable for companies that are

  • Looking for new technologies to exploit
  • Searching for an innovative solution to a technology need
  • Interested in licensing out their own technologies

The process involves

  1. Company Visit - a technology transfer consultant visits your company and reviews whether your technology needs can be addressed through technology transfer.
  2. Develop Profile - the consultant will develop a profile of your technology requirements. This forms the basis of the subsequent search for a partner.
  3. Search of International Databases and Networks - this is carried out by information specialists.
  4. Matching Process - where possible partners are found, the consultant will prepare a shortlist for discussion with your company. The best opportunities are selected and the consultant will arrange an introduction to the potential partner(s). The EI client's identity will remain confidential until the introduction stage.
  5. Assistance in the Negotiation Process - our consultant can assist you in the negotiation process and provide directions to further support and advice relating to intellectual property rights and innovation financing

The advantages of Technology Transfer

  • Technology already developed, and often proven in another market.
  • Generally lower cost than R&D
  • Shorter time to market
  • Technical assistance from licensor

Innovation Relay Centre (IRC)

Enterprise Ireland hosts the Innovation Relay Centre for Ireland, which is one of 68 centres across 31 European countries, forming the premier technology transfer network in Europe.

The objective of the Irish IRC is to help SMEs identify solutions to their technological problems and access European technology by promoting both inward and outward technology transfer.

The engine that drives the IRC network is a database of technology offers and requests. This contains approximately 3,000 records covering all industrial sectors. These come from companies primarily, but also from universities and research centres.

Putting Irish companies in touch with their like-minded European counterparts is a key function of the network. We can arrange meetings with potential partners for technology transfer, joint venture or other partnership possiblities.

For further details on the Irish IRC, visit the IRC Ireland website

Contacts:-

Technology Transfer & Business Partnerships and The Innovation Relay Centre

Click here to email Jim Cuddy, Manager Jim Cuddy, Manager - Tel: (353) 1 808 2763

Click here to email Patricia Seery Patricia Seery, Tel: (353) 1 808 2305

Click here to email Debbie Nolan Debbie Nolan, Tel: (353) 1 808 2449 


Last updated 28/5/2008