UBC is a recognized leader for its technology transfer and commercialization activities. 149 spin-off companies have been formed around UBC technologies, and UBC research discoveries have been at the heart of technologies, therapies and products that have generated well over $5 billion in sales.

For transformational research discoveries with the potential to generate significant impacts, whether financial, economic, or societal, the traditional technology transfer approach of IP-protection, development and commercialization will frequently remain essential.

By taking a broader approach to the means of distributing other research outputs, the UILO anticipates being able to concentrate technology transfer resources on a smaller number of technologies that it wishes to progress utilizing traditional commercialization activities.

The development of these technologies will receive enhanced support from the UILO through its internal Prototype Development Fund, through applications to government early-stage development funding programs such as CIHR’s Proof of Principle or NSERC’s Idea to Innovation programs, and through partnership with Centres of Excellence in Commercialization and Research (CECRs) in areas where their expertise and facilities can be leveraged.

The UILO will also continue to actively identify and support opportunities for the creation of spin-off companies around suitable technologies.