Step 1: Scientific/Technical Staff Submit NTR
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The technology transfer process is started when a civil servant employee or a contractor serving under a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement informs the IPP of your innovations (including software) through New Technology Reports (NTRs).
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What is an NTR?
An NTR is a detailed disclosure of individual technologies or innovations.
What qualifies as a new technology?
A new technology is broadly defined as any invention, discovery, improvement, or innovation that was either conceived or first reduced to practice in the performance of NASA work. New technologies may occur at the system, subsystem, or component level. New technologies include new or improved techniques, methods, systems, and processes as well as new or improved products, devices, machines, materials, chemical compositions, apparatuses, articles, fixtures, tools, and software.
Why should I submit an NTR?
The NTR allows the Technology Transfer Program to begin looking for commercial applications for the technology and to protect it as intellectual property. Publicly discussing your invention can prevent NASA from securing patent protection and reaping the benefits that can accompany intellectual property protection, so it is important that you submit the NTR first and then check with us before presenting or announcing your innovation. Also, an NTR is required for you to be eligible for a Space Act Award, the Invention of the Year Awards, and other recognition. (More awards information.) Finally, reporting technologies is required of NASA employees and contractors (see NASA Policy Directive 2091.A).
When do I submit an NTR?
An NTR should be submitted as soon as you recognize you have a new invention. This may occur in the middle of a project while R&D is still ongoing, or it may be recognized at the end during normal project reporting. The process of writing programmatic and mission progress reports also may assist you in recognizing and describing a new innovation. The earlier your invention is reported to the Technology Transfer Program, the more effectively and efficiently we can help you find successful commercial partners and market applications.
Most importantly, you should submit the NTR before making any public disclosure of the innovation.
How do I submit an NTR?
Use the online system eNTRe to report new technology. The eNTRe system requires you to describe what motivated the development, the benefits of the technology, and possible commercial applications. The Technology Transfer Program is exploring additional ways to make this process even easier.
