In the industry of technology transfer, diverse perspectives from around the world not only help us understand how things work in other countries but also provide fresh ideas for our own organizations. Joining us today is Rodrigo del Canto, Director of Technology Transfer at iCono UDD in Santiago, Chile.

Rodrigo del Canto is a seasoned professional in technology transfer and innovation, holding key roles at iCono UDD. With a background in law and public policy, Rodrigo extensively contributes to academia as a professor at Universidad del Desarrollo. He is actively involved in institutional committees focusing on intellectual property, R&D commercialization, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Today, we explore how iCono UDD has been instrumental in promoting innovation and facilitating technology transfer in Chile. We dive into specific project initiatives and their impact. Another discussion point will be iCono UDD's engagement with international partners. 

We uncover the key ingredients for successful international collaborations in the field of technology transfer. We also look ahead at trends and technologies on the horizon that could significantly shape the future of technology transfer, both in Chile and globally.

In This Episode:

[02:04] iCono UDD stands out for its client focused approach and adaptability. They integrate innovation and entrepreneurship within an ecosystem that fosters collaboration.

[03:01] Rodrigo shares initiatives like mentorship programs for startups, intellectual property licensing, and collaborations with companies to solve specific challenges.

[03:47] They're also particularly proud of a collaboration with their former President Sebastian Pinera who was killed in a helicopter accident.

[04:16] iCono UDD is a bridge and facilitator for universities, governments, and other collaborators.

[05:06] They want the innovation developed in their University relevant and applicable to industry and society.

[05:46] They have a variety of KPIs for their tech transfer projects, including the numbers of patents, licenses assigned, and the number of Industry collaboration projects. General impact also matters. 

[06:40] They have relationships with International universities such as UC Davis and Georgia Tech. This allows the R&D teams to expand their level of capabilities.

[07:37]  UC Davis has an International Center established in Chile. This has allowed iCono UDD to send several of their professors to California. Other staff has also participated in training programs for entrepreneurship, tech transfer, and intellectual property.

[08:54] They've linked with the science school, the architectural school, and the engineering school at UCD.

[09:16] Rodrigo shares what he feels are the key ingredients for successful international collaborations in the field of technology transfer.

[10:08] Trends include artificial intelligence and sustainability.

[12:11] Driving innovation and being recognized in the technology transfer ecosystem and having a passion for work and being recognized for their contributions is a goal of iCono UDD.

Resources: 

iCono UDD Technology Transfer

Rodrigo del Canto Huerta LinkedIn

UC Davis Chile: An Ally For Chilean Universities