Researchers' Guide to Commercialization

Who this guide is for

This guide is written for UBC faculty members and our wider research community, especially if you're new to commercialization or simply curious about how it works. It gives you a clear, end-to-end overview of the process, from discovery to real-world impact, so you know what to expect before you take a next step.

No prior experience with IP or business is needed.

Faculty members and researchers

At any career stage, in any discipline, whether or not you've disclosed an invention before.

New to the process, or just curious

Wondering whether your research could have impact beyond publication, and what that would involve.

Looking for the big picture

Wanting to see how every stage fits together, from disclosure to licensing to revenue sharing.

Get the guide for your campus

The guide is available in two editions. Choose the one for the campus where your research is based.


What's inside

The guide walks through each stage of the Innovation Cycle and answers the questions we hear most often from UBC researchers. 

 

Microscope

1. Research and Discovery

What counts as an invention, who counts as an inventor, and who owns what you create.

Documents

2. Invention Disclosure

When and how to tell us about your invention, ideally before you publish or present.

Map with points and magnifying glass

3. Assessment

How we work with you to evaluate the IP position and market potential, typically within 90 days.

Certificate with seal

4. IP Protection

How patents work, what they cost, and how we decide on a protection strategy together.

Person with question mark

5. Selecting a Pathway

Forming a UBC spin-off company or finding an existing commercial partner, and your role in each.

Scroll with hand holding money

6. Licensing

How we work with you to evaluate the IP position and market potential, typically within 90 days.

Graph

7. Commercialization

What happens as a licensee develops, validates and brings your invention to market.

Money

8. Revenue and Reinvestment

How net revenue is shared under UBC policy and reinvested in research and education.

 

You'll also find answers to questions like:

  • Who owns my invention?
  • I'm about to publish — should I disclose first?
  • What does patenting cost, and who pays?
  • Should I start a spin-off or find a partner?
  • How much of my time will it take?
  • How is licensing revenue shared?


 

Our doors are open

Have a question the guide doesn't answer, or feedback to share? We'd love to hear about your work. We can also bring a customized presentation or lunch-and-learn session to your lab or department.

engagement@innovation.ubc.ca 

Contact our Inventions & Licensing team

 
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