Frequently Asked Questions – Strategic Partnerships Office

What is the Strategic Partnerships Office (SPO)?
- SPO at NASA Goddard is dedicated to facilitating the transfer of NASA’s cutting-edge technologies to the private sector. It serves as a bridge between NASA’s technological innovations and external entities, including businesses, startups, and educational institutions.
How does the SPO facilitate technology transfer?
- SPO manages the process of identifying technologies developed at NASA Goddard that have potential commercial applications. It then works to protect intellectual property and partners with external organizations to license these technologies, fostering innovation and economic development.
What are Space Act Agreements and how do they work?
- Space Act Agreements are legal agreements that allow NASA to work with external partners on mutually beneficial projects. These agreements can vary in nature but typically involve sharing resources, expertise, or technology to achieve common goals.
How can businesses or researchers collaborate with NASA Goddard?
- Interested parties can collaborate through licensing agreements, partnerships, or participating in programs like SBIR/STTR. The first step is to contact SPO to discuss potential collaboration and understand the available opportunities.
What types of technologies are available for licensing?
- NASA Goddard offers a wide range of technologies for licensing, including advancements in environmental science, aeronautics, data processing, materials science, and more. The SPO maintains a catalog of available technologies.
What is the SBIR/STTR program and how does it relate to the SPO?
- The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs provide funding to small businesses and research institutions to develop technologies that meet NASA’s needs. SPO plays a role in managing these programs at Goddard.
How can I find out about current partnership opportunities?
- Current partnership opportunities are listed on the NASA Goddard SPO website and through NASA’s SBIR/STTR program portal. Interested parties can also sign up for newsletters or contact SPO directly.
What resources are available for startups interested in working with NASA Goddard?
- Startups can access a variety of resources including technology licensing opportunities, partnership agreements, and participation in the SBIR/STTR programs. SPO provides guidance and support throughout the process.
How does the SPO protect intellectual property?
- SPO works closely with NASA’s Office of Patent Counsel to secure patents and protect the intellectual property rights of technologies developed at Goddard, ensuring they are safeguarded in any partnership or licensing agreement.
Can international entities partner with NASA Goddard?
- Yes, international entities can partner with NASA Goddard, although preference is given to domestic partners when possible. International partnerships are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
What success stories have emerged from partnerships facilitated by the SPO?
- Numerous success stories include commercial products developed from NASA technology, such as environmental monitoring tools, advanced materials, and data processing software. Specific examples can be found here.
How can I contact the SPO for more information or to discuss a potential partnership?
- Interested parties can contact SPO via email, phone, or through the contact form on the NASA Goddard SPO website. The office is ready to provide information and discuss potential collaborations!