AUTM Introduces Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Toolkit 

AUTM is excited to present the new Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Toolkit, which provides guidance and resources for those in the technology transfer field. Developed by a team of volunteers including Narjes Achach, Almesha Campbell, Cedric D’Hue, Karen Maples and Lisa Mueller, the EDI Toolkit includes practical assistance, tips and resources on how to embed EDI at all stages of your tech transfer office’s work. 

This first edition of the AUTM EDI Toolkit provides guidance in understanding implicit and structural bias, how to measure impact with research and data and how to start or expand your diversity system.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce this toolkit to the entire tech transfer community to inspire all in our field to advance their EDI initiatives,” said EDI Committee chair Karen Maples. “Statistics show demographically heterogeneous teams outperform homogeneous groups in the areas of innovation, creativity and complex problem resolution, and we hope the resources provided are a springboard for offices to expand the impact of their EDI initiatives.”

The goal of the EDI Toolkit is to promote awareness and encourage dialog that contributes to a greater understanding of the value of an inclusive innovation ecosystem.  Individuals may also find value in using the toolkit to build personal and professional leadership skills in EDI.

The toolkit is focused on resources and tools relevant for the tech transfer field. It is a living document that will evolve as new resources, best practices and other information become available. 

AUTM also recently released its Biennial Demographic Survey to gain a better understanding of the demographic makeup of the technology and knowledge transfer community. The anonymous survey is open to all in the field, whether an AUTM Member or not, and will help to expand upon current program offerings and advocacy efforts for those in tech transfer.