Technology transfer plays a pivotal role in delivering new innovations to commercial markets and contributing to a vibrant economy.  Despite the downturn in the global economy, NC State’s Office of Technology Transfer continues to leverage its resources by facilitating partnerships that match real world solutions with consumer needs.  Reflecting the university’s vision, our technology transfer efforts have significant local impact, but also have national influence and elements of global engagement.  NC State has an important obligation to promote the broad dissemination of discoveries for the betterment of all global communities.  To this end, the Office of Technology Transfer continues to work tirelessly to develop creative and effective licensing strategies and to foster a culture that is supportive of the entrepreneurial pursuits of faculty, staff and students.

On December 12, 2010, universities and colleges across the country will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Bayh-Dole Act.  Since 1984, more than 70 new companies have been launched based on research conducted at NC State.  Based on data collected by the Association of University Technology Managers, universities in the US launch 12 new companies each week based on the pioneering work of faculty, staff and students.  In addition, two new products are introduced to the market every day by companies that have licensed early stage technologies from academic institutions.  NC State is proud to have contributed to the launch of more than 100 new products that provide benefits to consumers.  We must continue to innovate and take steps to strengthen and accelerate the innovation process to support North Carolina’s economic growth.  NC State is expanding its rich variety of programs and partnerships aimed specifically at building meaningful relationships between academia and industry.  I hope the innovation and entrepreneurship stories in our FY2010 Annual Report will inspired you to think boldly and find ways to collaborate in support of the university’s engagement, economic development, and technology commercialization mission.