During this phase, the UILO will work with the researchers to develop a strategy to best facilitate the dissemination or commercialization of the research output.
For knowledge translation activities, this may involve assistance with identifying resources to develop a KT plan in order to best influence decision-makers, policy or practice.
For outputs being advanced through other non-commercialization routes, this could involve some technical development or identification of appropriate channels.
For technologies following the commercialization pathway, this often involves patenting to protect the intellectual property of the invention, marketing the technology to potential licensees and, in appropriate cases, working with the inventors and possible investors to establish a spin-off company around the technology.
In many cases the assessment process will identify further research activities that will enhance either the quality of our patent position or to make the discovery more attractive to licensees or investors.
This research may involve:
- Additional research in the investigator’s laboratories, often funded by prototype development funding from either the UILO’s internal program or tricouncil programs
- Working with one of the Centres of Excellence in Commercialization and Research
When seeking licensees and/or investors, the UILO will work closely with inventors to identify key receptors and ensure that the technology is commercialized most appropriately.
The development and marketing phase for different technologies can vary significantly in duration. On occasion, new discoveries that appear compelling may fail to find traction in a crowded marketplace, and broader knowledge mobilization outlets may ultimately be the most effective form of distributing these technologies.
