Federal Technology Transfer (T2) legislation has been in place since 1980 to facilitate the transfer of federally developed technologies to the private sector as well as academic institutions and state & local governments. Federal and non-federal partners have the opportunity to work together on mutually beneficial research using instruments called Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs). T2 legislation also promotes the licensing of patented technologies developed in the federal laboratories for commercial applications.

NAWCTSD predominantly uses CRADAs in transferring technologies to non-Federal organizations. Licensing Agreements and Commercial Services Agreements are also vehicles for T2. Sometimes, partnerships with Federal organizations and other Department of Defense (DOD) entities facilitate dual-use and transfer of NAWCTSD developed technologies.

Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)

A CRADA is a legal instrument that allows NAWCTSD, a federal laboratory, to engage in collaborative efforts with a non-federal partner. Research and development performed under a CRADA must be collaborative and consistent with the mission of the federal laboratory. CRADA partners may contribute personnel, services, and property. The federal partner cannot contribute funds to the non-federal partner, but the non-federal partner may contribute funds. The non-federal partner may receive a non-exclusive license to inventions made during the performance of the CRADA effort. The non-federal partner may obtain an exclusive license to any inventions made during the performance of the CRADA effort; license should be for reasonable consideration. Data generated under a CRADA may be protected from public disclosure for up to five years.

The Research and Technology Office facilitates the development of CRADAs and enable the partnerships needed for success. For more information: [email protected]

Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) Resources

Standard Cooperative Research and Development Agreement

Patent Licensing Agreement (PLA)

Research performed at NAWCTSD may produce patented, innovative discoveries of commercial value. These patents are available for licensing to the private sector. PLAs can be non-exclusive, exclusive or partially exclusive. Navy and Marine Corps licenses are subject to an irrevocable, royalty-free right of government to practice the licensed invention. The licensee must have a plan for commercializing the invention.

Commercial Services Agreement (CSA)

Through a CSA industry can leverage NAWCTSD's research, development, test & evaluation capabilities. This Agreement is a type of contract (non-FAR based) whereby NAWCTSD can be directly paid by industry to perform services that are unique to the laboratory and not commercially available elsewhere. NAWCTSD can provide facilities and technical expertise to allow industry to capitalize on public investments of unique capabilities.

If you have any questions, please send us an e-mail at Technology Transfer Team .