Technology Transfer
We help faculty and students turn breakthrough ideas into real-world solutions. We support faculty and researchers in protecting their intellectual property, exploring commercialization pathways, and connecting with industry partners to bring innovations to market. Whether you’re disclosing a new invention, seeking proof-of-concept funding, or showcasing your work to potential collaborators, our goal is to help you navigate the journey from research to impact — while advancing economic growth across Tennessee and beyond.
Powered by the Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC)
The Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium (TTAC), a LaunchTN initiative, provides the foundation and funding for our tech transfer program. TTAC is a statewide technology transfer and commercialization support network that empowers faculty and student innovators across Tennessee’s higher education institutions to bring their groundbreaking research to market.
Through TTAC, we offer resources, expertise, and connections that help bridge the gap between academic research and industry application — building a stronger innovation ecosystem within Tennessee’s universities.
Ideation
Enabling translational research and access to innovation
We support faculty members in shaping their research into impactful real-world solutions
by aligning innovation with market needs and increasing the value of intellectual
property.
Development
Supporting university technologies with commercial potential
Our team provides critical development resources, including Proof of Concept funding
and SBIR/STTR support, to help researchers reach key milestones that validate and
de-risk their technologies.
Commercialization
Advancing technologies from lab to market
We facilitate startup formation, venture development, and marketing strategies for
university-developed technologies — and connect researchers with industry partners
to help move innovations into the marketplace.
Key Initiatives
Our Tech Transfer efforts are grounded in helping faculty and researchers turn ideas into innovation with real-world value. These key programs are designed to protect, fund, and elevate your work — from early-stage invention to market-ready solutions.
Invention Disclosure
Submitting an invention disclosure is the first step in protecting your intellectual property and exploring its commercial potential. This process allows us to evaluate your innovation, provide guidance on patentability, and begin identifying pathways for development and licensing. Our team is here to assist every step of the way — from completing the disclosure form to conducting prior art searches, assessing feasibility, and identifying potential commercialization opportunities.
Proof of Concept Faculty Grant
The TTAC Proof of Concept Grant Program, in partnership with LaunchTN, helps bridge the gap between promising research and commercial application. Faculty can receive $500 to $10,000 in funding to de-risk early-stage ideas, achieve critical milestones, and move innovations closer to market readiness.
Faculty Innovator Showcase
Our annual Faculty Innovator Showcase brings together faculty, industry partners, and government leaders to highlight campus-created inventions and research. It’s a celebration of innovation and a powerful networking opportunity that fosters collaboration, investment, and future commercialization.
Ready to Get Started or Looking for More Information?
Connect with our Tech Transfer team to discuss your invention, explore funding opportunities, or learn how we can support your path to commercialization.