The level of information available varies by technology. In some cases, publicly available materials—such as published papers or issued patents—can provide detailed technical insight. For other technologies, the only non‑confidential information available may be a brief overview provided through the University’s technology portal.

Execution of a Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA) allows TCO staff to share additional non‑public details and enables more substantive discussions regarding the technology and its potential applications.

USC technologies span a wide range of development stages, from early‑stage concepts to patented and validated prototypes. While some technologies may be ready for near‑term commercial use, most require additional development, validation, regulatory approval, or scaling.

Licensees are typically responsible for advancing the technology toward market readiness as part of the commercialization process.

Licensing terms are negotiated on a case‑by‑case basis and are primarily informed by the value and market potential of the technology. TCO works collaboratively with licensees to establish terms that are equitable and support successful commercialization.

Licensing a USC technology generally involves three categories of costs:

• An upfront license fee
• Reimbursement of applicable patent expenses
• Running royalties based on product sales

Upfront fees are typically due at license execution, while royalties are assessed once a product generates revenue. Because each technology differs in scope and market opportunity, specific financial terms are negotiated with TCO.

TCO seeks licensees with the technical expertise, operational capacity, financial resources, and management experience necessary to successfully develop and commercialize university technologies. The ability to execute a credible development and commercialization plan is a key consideration.

Industry‑sponsored research is generally conducted under a research agreement between the University and the sponsoring organization. These agreements define the scope of work, funding terms, and applicable intellectual property rights.

TCO works closely with the Office of Research to ensure that intellectual property and licensing considerations are appropriately addressed in sponsored research agreements.