Building Strategic Alliances to Advance AUTM's Mission

Mike Waring
Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator
AUTM



AUTM is currently working with several leading higher education associations to schedule an in-person meeting with John Squires, the newly appointed Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. This kind of collaboration is essential to effective advocacy in Washington.

One of the most powerful strategies in federal engagement is forming coalitions with like-minded organizations. These partnerships allow us to amplify our voice, share expertise, and pursue common goals. As famously noted in The Godfather, “It’s business – not personal.” That principle holds true in policy work, where alliances may shift depending on the issue.

Key Allies in Higher Education
AUTM has several natural partners in the higher education space. Chief among them are:

• Association of American Universities (AAU): Representing more than 65 top-tier research universities.
• Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU): Encompassing major public universities across all 50 states.
• American Council on Education (ACE): Serving as an umbrella organization for the broader higher education community.
• Council on Governmental Relations (COGR): Providing deep expertise in compliance and intellectual property from research institutions.
• Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): Driving much of the nation’s medical research and innovation.

Together with AUTM, these six organizations meet monthly to align on policy priorities, share intelligence, and engage key federal agencies and lawmakers. This unified approach helps ensure that our collective interests are represented and that we earn a seat at the table when decisions are made.

Expanding Our Coalition
Beyond higher education, AUTM also collaborates with broader coalitions focused on specific legislative and regulatory issues. One such group works to advance shared positions on patent policy. Another coalition played a critical role this past year in advocating for IRS reforms that benefit Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) companies—ensuring that tax laws support innovation rather than hinder it.

Guided by Our Board
At the heart of AUTM’s advocacy efforts is our elected Board of Directors. These tech transfer leaders meet nearly every month to shape the Association’s direction and approve all policy positions. AUTM never takes a stance without Board approval, ensuring that our advocacy reflects the values and priorities of our Membership.

Closing Thought
President Harry Truman is rumored to have said, “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog.” While the origins of that quote may be uncertain, the lesson remains clear: in Washington, relationships matter. At AUTM, we believe that working with trusted allies is the most effective way to advance our mission and serve the innovation community.