We create, accelerate and commercialise innovations based on top research. At their best, innovations can grow into success stories that enhance well-being and facilitate a more sustainable future. Together with companies and investors, we increase the impact of science-based innovations by making solutions available to everyone.
Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd functions as the technology transfer and commercialisation company (TTO) of the University of Helsinki. It supports the University’s top research teams turn their science-based inventions into commercially flourishing businesses. In practice, experts at Helsinki Innovation Services evaluate the commercial significance of research-born ideas and inventions, and help researchers with matters such as finding funding for the preparation of commercialisation, out-licensing of technologies, patent protection and establishing spinout companies. It also builds the bridge between spinout companies and investors while supporting the building of spinouts' management organisation.
In autumn 2024, the University of Helsinki published new principles of commercialisation and intellectual property guidelines. In future, entrepreneurial teams will gain a larger stake in spinouts. The share of the University of Helsinki will usually be 15% (previously 25%). In the case of inventions protected by a wide range of intellectual property rights, the University’s holding may be slightly larger. It may also be smaller in cases where teams are able to secure substantial funding right after setting up the spinout. In the case of projects that are not associated with patentable intellectual property, the holding of the University of Helsinki may fall to as low as 10%. This can occur, for example, in the case of software spinouts.
The net return on sold and licensed intellectual property will be allocated as follows: 50% to the relevant researchers, 30% to the profit centre and 20% to the University.
In addition to patentable inventions, the new intellectual property guidelines apply to copyrighted material.
The research carried out at the University of Helsinki's four campuses results in science-based innovations, some of which have significant commercial potential.
Learn more about the ongoing commercialisation projects and innovations.