Sandia uses a variety of agreements to develop partnerships
with industry, state and local governments, and universities. The
partner's goals, plus funding sources for the agreement, and Sandia's
strategic business objectives, determine the most appropriate partnering
mechanism. Sandia's Partnership Opportunities Brochure
(PDF) describes the agreement types available for Sandia and industry use.
The Laboratories also may enter into nondisclosure agreements and
memorandum of understanding when appropriate.
As a Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration
Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), Sandia may
perform work for industry responding to certain types of federal
government solicitations such as broad agency announcements or small
business innovation research/technology transfer. The solicitation must
allow FFRDC participation and meet the requirements of Sandia's
management and operating contract with DOE/NNSA.
Small Business
The New Mexico Small Business Assistance (NMSBA) Program
allows New Mexico small businesses facing a technical challenge to
access the unique expertise of Los Alamos and Sandia
national laboratories. At no cost to the business, small businesses can seek assistance from lab scientists or
engineers for projects that require testing, design consultation, and
access to special equipment or facilities.
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) is a highly competitive program that encourages small businesses to explore their technological potential and provides the incentive to profit from their commercialization.
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program is similar to SBIR but mandates that certain portions of work must be sub-contracted to a research institution.
Technology Transfer Ombuds
The
Technology Transfer Ombuds offers an informal process to help resolve
issues, concerns, and occasional conflicting needs and interests. These can
sometimes surface as part of the laboratories' technology partnerships,
patents, intellectual property concerns, and licensing activities. As a
designated neutral party, our Ombuds provides confidential, resolution-focused
services, and can also offer guidance to other resources for formally
reporting and resolving issues. For more Tech Transfer Ombuds information,
contact Mauricio (Reese) Ramos at maramos@sandia.gov, (925)
294-2065, or Jennifer Stinebaugh at jstineb@sandia.gov,
(505) 844-7638. Additional information is available on the Tech Transfer Ombuds website.