The future of research and innovation is on the line. Right now, universities across the country are facing significant funding cuts that could reshape the way groundbreaking discoveries move from the lab to the real world. These cuts threaten not just the researchers and students who rely on them, but the very foundation of our innovation economy. If you have ever wondered how new medicines, cutting-edge technologies, or even life-saving treatments come to exist, the answer often lies in Tech Transfer. Without proper funding, that process is at risk.

To unpack what is happening and what can be done, I am joined by someone who has spent nearly two decades fighting for research funding and intellectual property policy in Washington, D.C. Mike Waring. Mike is the Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator for AUTM. Before that, he spent 20 years leading the University of Michigan’s Washington office, working on Tech Transfer and policy issues at the highest levels. If anyone knows the ins and outs of how research funding decisions are made and what tech transfer professionals can do to advocate for their work, it is him.

In this episode, we get into the real stakes of these proposed budget cuts, what they mean for university innovation, and how Tech Transfer offices can better position themselves as indispensable assets on their campuses. We will also talk about the importance of storytelling in advocacy, why policymakers need to see the human side of research, and how even those who do not see themselves as lobbyists can play a role in protecting the future of tech transfer.

In This Episode:

[00:57] Mike Waring knows the ins and outs of advocacy in Washington better than most. He's been deeply involved in advocacy efforts for nearly 20 years.

[01:47] The strategy and focus for the conversations at Hill Day at the AUTM annual meeting. It was a great strategy to have members speak directly to people in DC.

[02:26] It was an opportunity to explain what we do and why tech transfer is so important.

[03:17] They want to put a cap on indirect costs such as lab infrastructure.  A 15% cap is far below what universities have negotiated. 

[04:25] A number of universities have raised red flags. Where will the money come to make up the difference in cost? We're going to make the case that an arbitrary number isn't the way.

[05:14] Simple and effective ways for Tech Transfer professionals to make their case to policy makers and University leadership. Make a case for the benefits to the local community.

[07:15] How Tech Transfer professionals can position themselves as an essential resource during discussions about funding and economic impact.

[08:46] Strengthening patent rights and what is eligible and what's not eligible. There's also another bill to try and fix problems with the patent appeals board.

[11:47] Hopefully, we can get most of these bills passed through the senate floor.

[12:12] Demonstrating impact when arguing the case against budget cuts. Look at your own track record including startups and discoveries. Show revenue, job creation, and innovation.

[14:15] It's easier for the head of the office to engage. If this isn't you, talk to your boss first. The director should have contact with the vice president of research. The federal relations people are your conduit for reaching the audiences for these issues.

[15:03] Include policy makers in events and showcase your progress. Put examples in their brain. When the battle is won, one policy maker at a time.

[16:11] Corporate partners can also help make the case on these issues.

[17:46] The budget deficit is quite large. The key is reducing the debt in a thoughtful way. We need more innovation not cutting back on growth potential.

[19:50] University presidents and CEOs can speak for the entire entity on these issues.

[20:19] America is the leader in innovation for a reason. We've empowered researchers to research on all kinds of topics. They've used federal funding and look at all of the benefits because of that. This is an investment that pays us back!

Resources: 

Mike Waring - AUTM

A Year of AUTM Advocacy with Mike Waring

Preparing for Potential Challenges