Unlocking Innovation: The Impact and Evolution of the Bayh-Dole Act

This expert panel discussion examines the transformative impact of the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980—landmark legislation that revolutionized how federally funded research moves from university labs to the marketplace.

Before Bayh-Dole, the federal government held rights to inventions created with public funding, leaving most discoveries locked away and uncommercialized. This bipartisan act changed everything, enabling universities and small businesses to retain ownership of their innovations and pursue partnerships that bring discoveries to market.

Moderated by Joe Runge of the UNeTech Institute, this conversation will feature Julie Burke, Joseph Allen and Mercedes Meyer.

Our panelists explore:

• The circumstances and vision that led to this groundbreaking legislation
• How Bayh-Dole catalyzed decades of technological advancement and economic growth
• Its critical role in technology transfer and university-industry partnerships
• The act’s lasting impact on American innovation and competitiveness

Whether you’re involved in academic research, technology commercialization, intellectual property law, or innovation policy, this webinar offers essential insights into one of America’s most successful innovation policies.

Program Leaders