Office of Technology Development (OTD)

Patenting & Licensing Process

If the MCW Office of Technology Development (OTD) declines to pursue the patenting and/or licensing of an invention, rights can be reverted to the inventor(s) who would be free to patent and commercialize the invention on their own, subject to the rights of third parties such as the NIH. Refer to MCW's Patent and Copyright Policy.

If OTD accepts an invention, OTD assumes all costs related to marketing and licensing the technology. Successfully patenting and licensing an invention requires the assistance of the inventor(s). Willingness to provide follow-up information and to work with potential licensees, all play a vital role.