The NIH STTR Model Agreement: Understanding the Basics
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) aims to foster innovation and promote the commercialization of research by small businesses. Under this program, small businesses can collaborate with research institutions to develop and commercialize technologies that have potential for public health impact.
To facilitate this collaboration, the NIH has developed a model agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership between the small business and the research institution. Here are some key things you need to know about the NIH STTR Model Agreement.
What is the NIH STTR Model Agreement?
The NIH STTR Model Agreement is a template agreement that provides a framework for small businesses and research institutions to establish a partnership for the development and commercialization of innovative technologies. The agreement includes provisions for intellectual property rights, access to research materials and data, and financial considerations such as funding and royalties.
Who can use the NIH STTR Model Agreement?
The NIH STTR Model Agreement is designed for use by small businesses and research institutions that are participating in the STTR program. The agreement is not mandatory, but it provides a starting point for negotiating the terms and conditions of the partnership.
What are some key provisions of the NIH STTR Model Agreement?
The NIH STTR Model Agreement includes provisions for intellectual property rights, access to research materials and data, and financial considerations such as funding and royalties. Some key provisions of the agreement include:
– Ownership of intellectual property: The agreement specifies who will own any intellectual property developed under the partnership. Generally, the small business retains ownership of the technology, while the research institution retains ownership of any inventions or discoveries that are not related to the technology.
– Access to research materials and data: The agreement outlines how the small business and research institution will share access to research materials, data, and other resources that are necessary for the development of the technology.
– Funding and royalties: The agreement specifies how funding will be provided to the small business and research institution, and how royalties from the commercialization of the technology will be shared.
– Reporting requirements: The agreement outlines the reporting requirements for both the small business and research institution, including progress reports, financial reports, and reports on any inventions or discoveries.
Why is the NIH STTR Model Agreement important?
The NIH STTR Model Agreement provides a clear framework for small businesses and research institutions to establish a partnership for the development and commercialization of innovative technologies. By using the agreement, both parties can ensure that their rights and interests are protected, and that they are working together towards a common goal.
In addition, the agreement helps to streamline the negotiation process by providing a starting point for discussions. This can save time and resources for both the small business and research institution, allowing them to focus on the important work of developing and commercializing innovative technologies.
In conclusion, the NIH STTR Model Agreement is an important tool for small businesses and research institutions participating in the STTR program. By understanding the basics of the agreement, you can ensure that your partnership is set up for success and that you are working towards a common goal of promoting innovation and public health impact.