The Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) program is the primary tool linking government and industry researchers.  This program, authorized under the Federal Technology Transfer Act of 1986, allows federal laboratories and businesses to form commercial partnerships that help move new technologies into the marketplace.  ARS scientists and companies work together to develop a research plan that is consistent with the agency's mission.  Under a CRADA, ARS scientists collaborate with private firms to help commercialize the technologies developed.  A CRADA allows the company the first right to negotiate an exclusive license to any inventions that emerge under the agreement. 

The objective of the CRADA is to expedite federal research activities to the private sector to enhance global and domestic competitiveness.

ARS has seven-geographically based Technology Transfer Coordinators that negotiate CRADA agreements.  For more information about CRADAs contact one of our Technology Transfer Coordinators.