Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) Annual Activity Survey

In November 2017, the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) published its annual activity survey of U.S. universities, hospitals and other research institutions. According to the AUTM survey, academic technology transfer continues to drive economic development. Most indicators are on the rise: invention disclosures, patent application filings, licensing revenues, the formation of startups, and the number of new products entering the market. On the negative side, the 37% increase in the number of startups (331) that ceased operation over the previous year was identified as a concern, along with the slight decrease in option and exclusive license agreements. It is suggested that these concerns are linked to the eroding of patent rights over the past several years. Legislators and judges, who care about economic growth, should take note.