FAU trusted handshake model

Transfer of intellectual property in spin-offs – fair and transparent

FAU offers a special FAU trusted handshake model for IP-based start-ups.

The FAU trusted handshake involves three standardized models for participation in spin-offs that allow contracts for start-ups outside the area of pharmaceuticals and life sciences to be negotiated as quickly and straightforwardly as possible.

A start-up can choose from the models frontflip, balanced or backflip, provided the relevant conditions correspond to a draft business plan drawn up in advance with the aim of an IPO or a VC-supported start-up.

Depending on the business plan and the scope of an existing patent portfolio at FAU, the University grants the transfer of relevant intellectual property rights (patent applications) in return for being granted virtual shares in the start-up.

The models differ in the weighting between granting virtual shares, milestone payments and sub-licensing arrangements, as well as the exit event for liquidating the virtual shares.

For entrepreneurs who want to establish a start-up on the basis of inventions arising from research and development at their Chair, the FAU trusted handshake model offers a quick and straightforward option for securing IP and transferring it to a start-up that runs in parallel to ongoing patent applications.

Each start-up still also has the option of agreeing on terms and conditions for transfers in their own negotiations with FAU, although this rules out the advantages of a rapid transfer.