From idea to market

The process of study and research often leads to creations that are useful in practice. These may be inventions, software, designs, know-how, etc. (hereafter: invention). If you are employed by the University or are a student, you must notify the Knowledge Transfer Office of your invention using one of the forms below. The Knowledge Transfer Office UL or UL Knowledge Transfer Ambassadors can help you identify your idea.

Important: Do not disclose your invention to the public (publication of a paper, thesis defence, presentation at a conference, lecture, etc.) before filing a patent application, as this will no longer qualify as novelty, which is essential for obtaining a patent.

Based on the completed invention application form, the Office prepares an assessment of the potential of the invention, both in terms of its legal protection by industrial property rights and its commercial potential. The invention is then assessed by a member of the Innovation Committee of the University of Ljubljana. If the invention demonstrates potential, the Rector issues a decision on the acceptance of the invention.

Legal protection of intellectual property through patents or other intellectual property rights is key to bringing innovations to market and encouraging further innovation. The Office develops a strategy for legal protection based on the proposal of the Innovation Commission and together with the patent attorney. The selected patent attorney, in cooperation with the inventor, prepares the patent application and arranges for filing with the desired patent office.

In the Office, we strive to ensure that every new invention comes to life in practice. For a product or technology protected by intellectual property rights, we seek an appropriate business partner (by preparing pitches, technology offers, and publishing them on our website, etc.). In discussions with potential partners, we ensure not to disclose confidential information. Your continued active involvement is crucial, especially since your idea requires further technical development and proof that it truly works. Only then does it become truly interesting for business partners. If you are seeking funding for concept validation, please explore the opportunities offered by the Innovation Fund UL.

Once we have identified a partner to put the invention into practice, we work with you to agree a form of transfer that suits both partners. Either in the form of a licence agreement or as a transfer of intellectual property rights.

In cases where there is a business opportunity for your product or service and you are ready to embark on an entrepreneurial journey, you can also choose to set up a spin-out company.