AUTM Updates

Accelerating Research Translation: How AUTM Supports Your NSF ART Application


The National Science Foundation’s Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program is back, and the stakes for institutional growth have never been higher. With the March 12, 2026, deadline approaching, AUTM is doubling down on its commitment to help member institutions, particularly smaller universities and emerging regional hubs, secure this vital funding.

The ART program’s Track 1 (Accelerating Technology Transfer) and Track 3 (Technology Transfer Resource Centers) are designed to bridge the gap between bench research and societal impact. However, a winning proposal requires more than just great research; it requires a proven plan for professional development and ecosystem networking.

A key component of the ART application is demonstrating external partnerships. AUTM provides formal Letters of Collaboration to member institutions committing to the program.

“Our goal is to ensure that no TTO has to build their infrastructure from scratch,” said AUTM CEO, Steve Susalka. “By including AUTM’s training and networking pillars in their NSF proposals, institutions show the reviewers they are tapping into a global standard of excellence.”

Strategic Membership Opportunities A cornerstone of a successful ART application is demonstrating how your team will stay connected to the evolving standards of the field. AUTM has streamlined how applicants can integrate Membership into their NSF proposals:

  • Track 1 Individual Growth: Applicants can budget for individual AUTM Memberships ($450/year) to ensure key personnel have immediate access to the world’s largest network of tech transfer professionals.
  • Track 3 Group Discounts: For institutions aiming to become regional hubs, AUTM offers discounted Group Membership packages for 10 or more members (starting at $4,250). This allows your entire team—and even regional partners—to benefit from shared resources and professional alignment.
  • The Foundation Fellows Program: Strengthen your "Education and Training" component by budgeting $6,000 for the Foundation Fellows program. This "concierge" training path provides newcomers with an intensive introduction to the field through mentorship and registration for three core AUTM events.
To meet the NSF's requirement for robust training and capacity building, AUTM offers a suite of educational programs that can be directly written into your grant budget. These offerings provide the expertise necessary for successful research translation:
  • Foundation-Building Courses: AUTM’s Essentials of Academic Technology Transfer course is the industry standard for those new to the field, covering the full lifecycle of an invention from disclosure to license negotiation.
  • Operational Excellence: The Operations, Compliance, and Agreements & Finance courses ensure your TTO infrastructure is built on best practices for record-keeping, auditing, and federal reporting.
  • Specialized Skill Development: Deep-dive into high-impact areas with courses on Startup creation, Technology Valuation, Negotiation Strategies, and Software licensing.
  • Flexible Learning: In addition to in-person sessions, AUTM provides On-Demand Courses and an All-Access Webinar Pass, allowing your entire campus—from PIs to administrators—to benefit from professional development on a flexible schedule.
  • Regional Convening: For Track 3 applicants, the AUTM on the Road pilot program offers a high-impact, one-day experience for local tech transfer communities to connect and share regional insights.

Pro-Tip for Grant Writers: When filling out your budget justification, refer to these as "Institutional Capacity Building" and "Professional Workforce Development" to align with the NSF ART solicitation goals.

Ready to apply? Visit our Tech Transfer Grant Support page for full details on how to include AUTM in your budget and how to request your letter of support.