Frequently Asked Questions

The TTO helps translate research into real-world solutions. We support researchers in protecting their intellectual property (IP), exploring commercial opportunities, and forming industry partnerships.

Technology transfer creates value for the ordinary citizen by delivering innovative solutions that improve daily life. It creates value for the university by enhancing its reputation, strengthening its brand, and building industry partnerships. It creates value for the researcher and inventor by providing recognition, opportunities for commercialisation, and a share in the financial benefits. Thus, technology transfer drives South Africa’s social and economic progress through new enterprises, jobs, and learning opportunities.

The TTO’s services are available to CPUT researchers, staff, and postgraduate students working on innovations or research with commercial or social impact potential. Undergraduate students may approach the TTO for advice; however, unless a project has made significant use of CPUT’s resources, the university does not claim ownership of undergraduate businesses.

If your work has led to new knowledge, a prototype, or a clear improvement to a product, process, or design — and it shows potential for commercial or social impact — we encourage you to contact the TTO for evaluation and support.

You can complete our Invention Disclosure below and submit it to the TTO. After assessment the TTO will schedule a meeting with you to discuss next steps.

The TTO will assess the societal and commercial potential. If appropriate, intellectual property will be protected as part of the commercialisation process.

Yes, public disclosure (e.g., journal articles, conference presentations) can impact patenting. Please contact the TTO before publishing to ensure proper protection is in place.

In line with the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development Act (IPR Act), ownership typically rests with the university, but inventors are recognized and rewarded through benefit-sharing.

We manage patents, copyrights, trademarks, designs, and trade secrets arising from university research and innovation.

We explore licensing, industry partnerships, and spin-out company formation. We also help with market research, pitching, and connecting with funders or business development support.