Isis smooths links with SMEs

Oxford’s tech transfer unit Isis Innovation has unveiled an initiative to support small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) in accessing the university’s intellectual property (IP)

The Isis SME Smart IP Scheme (SSIPS) will offer SMEs a phased programme to access and use Oxford’s IP with support from Isis in the form of lending its expertise and IP management skills.

The SSIPS licence is a two-stage processes. The first step will be for SMEs to enter into a developmental licence with Isis which will progress IP from blueprint to prototype. Once there, the SME has three options: to manufacture the product internally, to out-licence to another company, or to pass the designs to Isis for marketing.

SMEs which invest in the programme will take a share of future revenues from any product which passes through the process. Isis will also work with SMEs to identify financial opportunities through research councils, R&D tax credits, competitions with the Technology Strategy Board, and more.

Will Barton, head of manufacturing at the Technology Strategy Board (TSB), said: “The TSB recognises that small and medium-sized enterprises with high growth potential will be a major source of the UK’s future economic growth. We are committed to supporting innovation in this sector, and are delighted that Isis is making it even easier for SME’s to get a head start through more attractive access to Oxford University’s IP, and through the assistance they are giving to help SME’s access our grants and the new government tax benefits like patent box and enhanced R&D Tax Credits.”

Tom Hockaday, managing director of Isis Innovation, added: “SSIPS combines Isis IP and technology transfer expertise with SMEs development strengths to bring innovative technologies to market. SMEs are vital to the health of the local and national economy – we believe that this initiative, which makes good use of Isis’ experience and networks, will make a real impact and will be beneficial for all involved.”