1) Why should I protect my intellectual property (IP)?
Patenting is often the crucial first step in the long process to turn your invention into a marketable product. Considerable investment of time and money is required before the fruits of discovery are realized. Protection offered by a patent gives prospective companies the incentive to make these investments.

2) What can TEC Edmonton do for me?
We can add value to your IP. If you assign your invention to TEC Edmonton, you can focus on your research while our teams focus on identifying and protecting your IP, and developing a commercialization strategy with maximum impact.

3) What’s in it for TEC Edmonton?
TEC Edmonton’s philosophy is to capture more of the research done in our region, for our region. In commercializing inventions developed in the region, creating licensing opportunities and new companies, TEC Edmonton supports regional economy development and diversification. TEC Edmonton covers its expenses by taking shares in the venture.

4) Does assignment mean I have no control over what happens next?
No. TEC Edmonton works with the researcher throughout the entire process. The researcher remains fully entitled to their share of the revenue generated from licensing agreements.

5) How is the confidentiality of the technology protected?
TEC Edmonton is bound by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Alberta) to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of inventions and personal information about researchers. TEC Edmonton will only release information about inventions as required by law or as otherwise necessary pursuant to implementing the commercialization activity, or for enforcement of intellectual property protection.

6) What are my intellectual property rights?
The University of Alberta Faculty Agreement covers your rights and obligations regarding intellectual property.

7) Do I have to commercialize my IP?
No, you are not obliged to commercialize your IP. However, if you are interested in commercializing your IP you must complete the Report of Invention form and are strongly advised to consider protection issues before publicly disclosing.

8) Does IP protection (such as patenting) mean I cannot publish?
No however it is advisable to commence IP protection before you talk about, publish or otherwise disclose your discovery. Public disclosure can jeopardize the ability to protect IP. Researchers are encouraged to contact TEC Edmonton when contemplating public disclosure on technologies so we can work with you.

9) How long does it take to patent a technology and how much does it cost?
Each case is different and while it might take only a short time to file the patent, the application process is often long and expensive. It can take several years between application and issuance, and costs can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

10) Can I get a patent on something that I have already publicly disclosed?
Yes, but this is more difficult. In Canada and the United States there is a one-year grace period for filing for protection after first public disclosure by the Researcher; however, you are cautioned not to rely on this grace period, and instead discuss disclosure options first with TEC Edmonton.

11) How do I get the technology into a company?
The standard route for spin-off companies is an exclusive license.