DOE eases requirements for startup companies to license patents

Washington Post : Department of Energy secretary Steven Chu has announced that the DOE will reduce the fees and the paperwork required for startup companies who want to license technologies developed by DOE national laboratories, according to an Associated Press release. Chu said the total upfront cost of licensing patents in a specific technology would be reduced to $1000 for portfolios of up to three patents. Called “America’s Next Top Energy Innovator” challenge, the program starts 2 May and those interested should submit a business plan and technology of interest.