The third National Intellectual Property Protocol, which provides a framework for businesses to access Irish research and commercialise that research, was launched today.
The protocol is managed by Knowledge Transfer Ireland, which aims to maximise the extent to which state-funded technology, ideas and expertise gets into the hands of business to drive innovation.
The new protocol sets a benchmark for good practice in the commercialisation of valuable intellectual property all around the country, on terms that are fair to researchers and business alike.
Recognising the significant numbers of spin-out companies coming out of research performing organisations, it also includes a dedicated section on best practice in the formation of spin-out companies.
John Halligan, Minister of State at the Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation and the Department of Education and Skills, said while investment in research performing organisations is critical, it must go hand in hand with an effective strategy to put that research into the hands of businesses for the benefit of the Irish economy and society.
"The National Intellectual Property Protocol is a key element of that strategy," he stated.
"In today's climate, more than ever, it is vital that we harness the considerable abilities of Ireland's researchers, so as to give businesses the best possible competitive edge on the European and global stage," Minister Halligan added.
Alison Campbell, Director of Knowledge Transfer Ireland, said the new section on spin-out company formation developed in consultation with people operating at the coal-face is particularly welcome and was drafted to address a gap in the framework.
