Consolidated TLO Reports 17 Startups, 5.3 Billion Won in Tech Transfer Deals

The consolidated TLO task force has reported its startup and technology transfer results, according to etnews.com. The task force identified 43 preliminary startup teams, of which 17 have actually launched companies.

Another 18 companies are preparing to start up this year under direct support from the consolidated TLO.

Technology transfer contracts totaling about 5.3 billion won were created through the small-scale intensive technology consultative body (SRT) methodology, and follow-up results in progress amount to about 11.75 billion won.

Earlier Push Behind the Consolidated TLO

In 2021 and the following year, National Assembly audits pointed to the need for expanded expertise and formal operation of government-funded research institute TLO organizations, and demanded measures to revitalize TLO functions. In 2024, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Council of Science & Technology (NST) established the consolidated TLO to attempt technology commercialization models including large-scale and convergence technology transfer, deep-tech planning startups, patent infringement response, and corporate-commissioned and intermediary research linkage. Last year, the consolidated TLO helped a large technology transfer contract between a government-funded research institute and a major domestic company by reviewing and consulting on complex contract conditions, and Chae Gil-byeong, a principal researcher at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, received planning startup support from the consolidated TLO and is now at the stage of filing for business registration.

Last month, NST decided on detailed implementation directions for the post-PBS system of government-funded research institutes, which includes regularizing the consolidated TLO next year.