How to license a technology from an Indian university or lab
A practical path for companies and startups, from finding the right technology to signing and registering the licence.
1. Define the problem you need solved
Write down the technical problem, the performance you need and your target cost. It keeps your search focused and helps owners see quickly whether their technology fits.
2. Find and shortlist technologies
Search the Zernyx Marketplace by problem, field or keyword. Shortlist two or three candidates and compare them side by side on readiness, protection status and licence terms.
3. Check readiness and fit
Review each technology's TRL and what it would take to reach production. A lower TRL is not a deal-breaker, but it changes the price and the work you should plan for.
4. Sign an NDA and review the details
Ask the owner for detailed data, drawings and know-how under a non-disclosure agreement. Involve your engineers early.
5. Do your due diligence
Confirm who owns the IP, that every inventor has assigned their rights, that the patent is in force or pending, and that no other licence conflicts with yours.
6. Agree the term sheet
Agree field of use, territory, exclusivity, upfront fee, royalties, milestones, sublicensing rights, and support from the inventors. Get these agreed in a short term sheet before lawyers draft the full agreement.
7. Sign and register the licence
Sign the licence agreement and register it with the Controller of Patents under Section 69 of the Patents Act, so your rights can be enforced.
8. Transfer the know-how
Plan the handover: documents, samples, training visits and a named contact on the owner's side. Most licences succeed or fail at this step.