From lab to market: Strengthening the role of Technology Transfer Offices in bringing knowledge to the market

Overview

Supports universities, research institutions, and technology transfer offices (TTOs) in improving commercialization of academic research by developing startup-friendly intellectual asset management tools, incentive models, and pilot initiatives to strengthen collaboration with industry and startups.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of at least three legal entities from three different EU Member States or Associated Countries, including universities, research and higher education institutions, or research technology organisations (RTOs). At least one participant must be from a "widening country" (e.g., Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, Romania). Innovation agencies or public authorities may participate as additional beneficiaries.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: 1,000,000 EUR
• Funding is provided as a lump sum.

What Is Funded

• Development of startup-friendly intellectual asset management strategies and licensing/transfer tools (e.g., templates, standardised processes, case studies).
• Creation of incentive and benefit-sharing models to encourage researchers and students to engage in commercialization.
• Implementation of at least three pilot cases testing licensing/transfer tools and benefit-sharing models.
• Establishment of a blueprint for licensing, royalty/revenue-sharing, and equity participation in academic IP commercialization.
• Activities must focus on critical technology areas related to the EU’s economic security.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 7 to 9.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-06-08
• Deadline: 2026-09-21

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must follow the standard application form for Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions (RIA).

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.