TT Tip: Technology Maturation Fund

The Technology Maturation Fund is a grant program managed by the Technology Transfer (TT) Division. The fund supports Laboratory technologies identified to have high commercial potential. The intent of the fund is to move promising technologies to the proof-of-concept or prototype stage to attract potential licensees or investors interested in funding a startup company or commercializing a new technology. The Technology Maturation Fund acts similar to a venture capital fund. However, instead of investing in start-up companies, funds are invested in internal technologies.

What should an employee know about the Tech Mat Fund before applying?

• Funds are allocated from the LANS prime contract through Appendix N and a portion of TT retained license income.
• Approximately $450,000 is available in Technology Maturation funds each year.
• Awards are made in amounts up to $50,000 per project/milestone.
• Proposals are accepted throughout the year; the fund-review panel meets once a month.
• Proposals are reviewed by a panel of TT staff.
• Funds are awarded based on the commercial potential, not scientific merit, of the technology.
• Tech Mat funding is exempt from G&A. However, Organizational Support is applied.

What else should be considered before applying for Tech Mat funding?

• Funds allocated may not be used to substitute or increase funding from other sources already funded by Department of Energy or Work-for-Others programs. Employees should contact their business team leader if there is a question.
• Awards will be treated as advances on license revenue and a repayment schedule will be developed.
• Work must be conducted in accordance with the Laboratory’s Integrated Safety Management requirements.
• Foreign National participation must be approved by Foreign Visits and Assignments and disclosed on form 982, “Unclassified Visit or Assignment by a Foreign National.”

How does an employee apply for a Tech Mat award?

To apply, Laboratory researchers submit a short proposal describing their technology and its market potential. Proposal applications are available on the Technology Maturation Web page. For more information, contact Doruk Aytulu, Technology Maturation Fund administrator, at 7-5315.

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