Licensing patents, trade secrets and software

VTT works to promote the wide-ranging utilisation and commercialisation of research and technology in commerce and society. As one of Europe’s leading research institutions, our research, development and inventions span everything from carbon-neutral solutions to sustainable products and materials through to innovative digital technologies. 

There are various good reasons to license patents from VTT:

• Our strong patents ensure a more secure position in the marketplace. They are highly enforceable and hard to infringe. Our carefully maintained patent portfolio includes novel technologies with strong market relevance. 
• To ensure you get the most out of our IPR portfolio, we offer all our patents for licensing. Some patents are also available for purchase at market price. 
• We have decades of expertise in every aspect of the licensing process. From establishing strong patents to choosing the terms that best suit your needs, we know how to achieve the best possible results. 
• Throughout the licensing process, you will be supported, guided and consulted by our extensive network of experts. This way you derive the maximum benefit from your investment.

In addition to offering IPR assets as a part of project co-operation, VTT also licenses rights to patents and offers transfer of technology and technical know-how. 

Our multidisciplinary IP portfolio covers all our research areas and several industry sectors: 

• Nearly 2,000 patents or patent applications in over 400 patent families 
• Software 
• Trade secrets such as manufacturing processes or formulas or other documented and verified expertise. 

1. What is VTT?

   VTT is one of Europe’s leading research institutions, owned by the Finnish state. Our special duty as an independent and impartial research centre is to promote the wide-ranging utilisation and commercialisation of research and technology in commerce and society. We bring together people, business, science and technology to solve the biggest challenges of our time. Find out more about VTT here. 

   Many of Finland's most prominent technology startups have originated from VTT. VTT LaunchPad supports research teams in developing VTT-owned IPR into financially viable startups that are geared towards international growth. The goal is to bring potential companies close to the customer as early as possible, so that the startups we develop genuinely respond to customer needs. If you want to know more about our startup activities, read more about the VTT LaunchPad incubator here.
    

2. How can I get VTT’s IPR assets?

   There are two ways to get IPR assets from VTT: 

   1. Part of project co-operation. When commissioning a project from VTT, you are automatically entitled to the patent licenses needed to utilise the results of the project. 

   2. Licensing or technology transfer. You can license or purchase rights to existing patents and other IP assets at market value.
    

3. What rights do I get when purchasing IPR from VTT?

   We license both non-exclusively and exclusively. However, we prefer non-exclusive licenses as they allow companies and society to rapidly and extensively benefit from scientific and technological achievements. 

   VTT’s patent offering is subject to the terms and conditions required of public research and technology organisations.
    

4. What are the pricing principles of VTT’s IPR?

   Our IPR portfolio is subject to the terms and conditions imposed on public sector research and technology organisations. Consequently, all our products are priced at market value. 

   Each licensing case is unique and therefore priced individually. We offer different payment modalities ranging from an upfront lump sum to proportional royalties with minimum annual fees.
    

5. What are VTT’s licensing terms?

   Our licensing terms depend on several factors such as the field of use, the product or service covered, the geographical coverage of the patents, whether exclusive or non-exclusive rights are granted, and the duration of the patents. Thus, the terms are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
    

6. What to look out for when licensing IPR?

   Start by analysing your business needs and planning your targets. Make sure you have a clear scope, field of application and geographical area in mind.

   Then, find an established, reputable IP rights owner. Ensure the patent you are licensing is strong and enforceable. Ensure the licensing terms suit your unique business needs. 

   When licensing with VTT, you’ll get a knowledgeable and reliable innovation partner. We are driven by our core mission of developing sustainable solutions for our customers, enabling them to gain a competitive advantage and foster new business opportunities.

   We have decades of experience in establishing strong patents and licensing our IPR. We take pride in supporting you throughout the licensing process so that you can gain the maximum return on your investments.