There are two options for commercialization of research discoveries. One path is through a license agreement with a company that has access to the appropriate R&D resources and markets to fully develop and commercialize the invention. The other involves development of a start-up company specifically designed to develop the new technology.  While commercialization through a company is common, faculty researchers at USC are also encouraged to take an entrepreneurial role in order to develop their invention through a start-up.  The IP Office will work with you to assist in deciding which option is the most viable transfer mechanism for your specific discovery.

• License to an Existing Entity or Company: The most traditional and common form of commercialization is to license a discovery through an established, financially-stable corporation that will invest financial and human resources to ensure the successful development of research.  The USC IP Office will work with the company representatives to review licensee rights and responsibilities.
   
• License to a Start-Up or Become an Entrepreneur: A start-up company is typically created to develop a particular technology for commercialization.  In the U.S.,  thousands of university researchers become entrepreneurs by either creating start-ups themselves or engaging directly with newly-formed local or regional start-ups.  Start-up companies operate with a high degree of innovation and aggressive, pragmatic leadership.  Their focus is the particular technology, and therefore their resources can be specifically pointed to the development of that technology alone.  For assistance in creating a start-up or licensing to a start-up, visit Resources for Entrepreneurs.