Stories Worth Sharing - Again and Again

In today’s uncertain landscape, connection and collaboration are more important than ever for the technology transfer profession. By sharing ideas, strategies, and lessons learned, we strengthen not only our individual offices but the broader community of TTOs around the world. That spirit of exchange is exactly what this new TTO Toolkit column is designed to capture. Each edition highlights creative ways that offices are showcasing the value of technology transfer and advancing their missions—complete with practical tips on what has worked well, and just as importantly, what hasn’t.

One tried-and-true tool in the TTO communications toolbox is the magazine or annual report. While it may seem like an “old standard,” its staying power speaks for itself. A well-crafted publication can serve multiple purposes across audiences:

• Inspiring students by spotlighting success stories that encourage them to think big and embrace an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Reminding researchers and PIs that their discoveries matter—and that their TTO is ready to help bring innovations into the world.
• Reinforcing value with leadership, who can then easily advocate for the office with legislators, donors, and the media.
• Fueling outreach efforts, since individual stories can be repurposed quickly for social media, newsletters, and presentations.
• Streamlining submissions to initiatives like AUTM’s Better World Project (hint, hint!).

Recently, several TTOs have shared excellent examples of their magazines and reports on LinkedIn, sparking new ideas and conversations across the community. These efforts demonstrate how impactful storytelling can be when it comes to raising awareness and building support for technology transfer.

• Washington University in St. Louis Office of Technology Managment "Innovation Insights"
• Stanford Office of Technology Licensing FY 2024 Annual Report "Bridging to Impact"
• Emory University "Emory Magazine From Bench to Breakthrough"

AUTM wants to highlight more examples like these—and explore other innovative ways you’re promoting your office. Sharing your work not only helps your peers but also strengthens the collective voice of our profession. Remember to tag AUTM in your social media posts! Contact us with ideas.