Spin-out Review

The University of Reading Welcome Spin-out Review Recommendations

The University of Reading welcomes the recommendations of the Independent Review of University Spin-out Companies, published in November 2023, and is actively working to integrate best practices into our spin-out processes. The review aims to improve the creation and growth of university spin-out companies and establish strong incentives for the UK to lead in commercializing university research, to which the University is fully committed.

Aligning with Best Practices

The University acknowledges the importance of the University Spin-out Investment Terms (USIT) Guide, a set of recommendations to streamline spin-out formation. Reading is currently updating and approving its IP Policy and spin-out development processes and guidelines to ensure alignment with the best practices outlined in the Review and the USIT Guide.

Optimizing Spin-out Processes and Equity

Reading emphasizes the need for clear communication regarding its spin-outs to researchers across all disciplines (STEM and SHAPE). This aims to raise awareness of spin-outs as a viable option for translating research into real-world applications and achieving impact. Additionally, Reading seeks to ensure spin-outs are consistently considered for the exploitation of all university intellectual property (IP).

Reading acknowledges the value of the specific strategies within the USIT Guide and is committed to exploring their incorporation to further enhance our spin-out formation process. We remain committed to a flexible approach to equity allocation, allowing tailored support to the unique needs of each spin-out company to maximise the likelihood of long-term success.

Continuous Improvement and Collaboration

Reading acknowledges there's no "one-size-fits-all" approach to spin-outs, and we are building this flexibility into out spin-out development processes (along with the relevant recommendations of the Review and USIT guide); as well being committed to continuous improvement. Reading will assess the effectiveness of our internal guidelines and explore potential refinements based on the USIT Guide on an ongoing basis, and seek to build collaborations with other university Technology Transfer Offices.