New Member Information
Who We Are
The Bayh‑Dole Coalition is a group of innovation-oriented organizations and individuals committed to celebrating, preserving, and protecting the Bayh‑Dole Act of 1980, and informing legislators, policymakers, and the public at large of its many benefits.
We have a simple mission: To celebrate, preserve, and protect the Bayh‑Dole Act.
With your support, the Bayh‑Dole Coalition will continue to defend the Bayh‑Dole Act and work to ensure that our nation’s future remains bright.
Why Join?
Since 1980, the Bayh‑Dole Act has empowered universities, small businesses, and research institutions to retain ownership of inventions stemming from federally funded research. Once heralded by the Economist Technology Quarterly as “the most inspired piece of legislation to be enacted in America over the past half-century,” this law has helped turn taxpayer-funded research into real-world breakthroughs — from cancer treatments and COVID vaccines to clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing tools. It’s one of the most successful public policy frameworks in American history, underpinning a system that has:
- Contributed $1 trillion in GDP
- Supported 6.5 million jobs
- Catalyzed more than 19,000 startups
- Led to more than 580,000 invention disclosures
- Delivered life-saving innovations to the public
Unfortunately, the dynamic system of public-private collaboration that the Bayh‑Dole Act facilitated is under attack. Opponents are pushing policies that would distort the law’s purpose and undermine the system it supports — risking future breakthroughs, economic impact, and public benefit.
We must fend off the erosion of this landmark legislation.
By joining the Coalition, you align with a strategic, forward-looking movement that informs the public, engages with policymakers, and defends the essential link between government-funded research and private-sector innovation. The Coalition works across political and industrial lines to ensure lawmakers and decision-makers understand what’s at stake — and what’s possible when Bayh‑Dole is preserved.
You don’t have to be in Washington to make a difference. When you join, you’re part of a nationwide effort that’s shaping the future of American science, technology, and competitiveness.
The work we do together is invaluable.
Who Should Join?
The Coalition welcomes all organizations and individuals that are committed to strengthening America’s innovation ecosystem and protecting the Bayh‑Dole Act. Our members come together across the public and private sectors, including:
- Universities and Research Institutions
- Small Businesses and Startups
- Nonprofits and Foundations
- Inventors and Researchers
- Academics
- Entrepreneurs
- Technology Transfer Offices and Administrators
- Venture Capitalists and Investors
- Industry Associations
- Policymakers
- Lawyers and Legal Experts
- And more!
Whether you’re commercializing research, advocating for innovation policy, or simply passionate about keeping America at the forefront of global innovation — you belong in the Bayh‑Dole Coalition.
What You’ll Gain With Membership
Coalition members gain more than a seat at the table — they gain a voice in the national conversation on innovation policy. As a member, you’ll:
- Be part of regular engagement with federal agencies, congressional offices, and other key stakeholders
- Receive timely updates and insights about legislative developments and opportunities
- Participate in exclusive briefings and events, including the Coalition’s annual Faces of American Innovation award ceremony and Capitol Hill briefing in Washington, D.C.
- Have a platform to feature your Bayh‑Dole related events, success stories, and developments
- Contribute to Coalition strategy
- And more!
Membership is also an opportunity to build community and network with people across the country who believe in the value of innovation, entrepreneurship, and public benefit. Our members learn from each other, amplify one another, and stand stronger together in protecting what works.
Ready to Get Involved?
Becoming a member is easy. Your name will join a growing list of respected institutions and individuals committed to preserving the Bayh‑Dole legacy and securing America’s innovation future.
Still have questions? Contact us here — we’d love to hear from you.
[printfriendly]