Technology transfer brings technologies and innovative ideas developed at research institutions into the marketplace to be used for public consumption. Basic research (in universities and industry) produces new insights that, in turn, are refined into practical applications through applied research. The idea is then commercialized and diffused into widespread use, in turn creating new businesses and jobs. This economic cycle is dependent on the research and technology transfer strength of universities, the ability for universities and industry to collaborate on new ideas, the depth of talent in an entrepreneurial community, and institutions that support commercialized research. Facilitation of the technology transfer process is accomplished through Technology Based Economic Development (TBED).

Both the University of Oregon and Oregon State University maintain Offices of Technology Transfer. These offices help bring technologies developed at the Universities into public use, thereby providing economic development assistance to state and federal agencies and Oregon companies to benefit Oregon constituents, while assisting in identifying, protecting, developing and transferring technology to the private sector.

University of Oregon Office of Technology Transfer

Oregon State University Office of Technology Transfer

The SWRC has as one of its objectives, the facilitation of the technology transfer process in the Southern Willamette Region. As part of its ongoing efforts to develop more understanding about technology transfer and TBED, SWRC provides a newsletter on recent developments in technology.

SWRC Technology Transfer Newsletter

Other Technology Transfer news sources include:

University of Oregon Research News
Inquiry: A magazine highlighting research at the University of Oregon

Oregon State University Headline News