Collins introduces TRANSFER Act

Congressman Chris Collins, R-27, has introduced legislation in Congress to help scientists commercialize their ideas and it has the backing of local research universities.

 

Collins, a member of the Science, Space and Technology Committee, is the sponsor of the TRANSFER Act of 2013 (H.R. 2981), which builds upon a current program and specifically awards grants to innovative technology transfer programs at universities, research institutes, and national laboratories. Collins made the announcement Sept. 13 during a visit to SUNY Geneseo’s Nuclear Molecular Lab.

 

“One of the most effective ways we can spur economic growth is to assist some of the country’s smartest minds in turning their good ideas into a commercial success,” Collins said. “Scientists often need a funding boost to take the initial steps to see if their invention or concept has the potential to be commercialized. Without this critical legwork, a scientist is often unable to partner with a business or an investor to take their idea to the next level.”

 

The TRANSFER Act would provide $50,000 grants, on average.

 

Collins says the bill would be an asset to both research institutions and federal taxpayers.

 

“More than half of all basic research conducted at our nation’s colleges and universities is funded by the federal government. Grants aimed at helping take ideas to the marketplace will help American taxpayers realize a greater return on their investments, and improve the competitiveness of the American economy,” Collins said. “There is no doubt that Americans will benefit from the acceleration of new products, technologies and medicines.”

 

The bill received support from SUNY Geneseo President Christopher C. Dahl , who said the legislation fits very well with the college’s strong record in undergraduate research.

 

“It would strongly support the good work Geneseo is doing on entrepreneurship and the key role it will play in New York’s future,” said Dahl, who noted students studying in Geneseo’s School of Business, conducting projects in its new Center for Inquiry, Discovery and Development and the hundreds of clients taking advantage of Geneseo’s Small Business Development Center.

 

The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee recently had a hearing to discuss this legislation. The committee will soon begin consideration for its passage. This bipartisan bill is co-sponsored by Congressman Derek Kilmer of Washington and has the backing of Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) and Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas).

 

The bill has support from a wide range of scientific and professional organizations, including the American Council on Education, the Association of American Medical Colleges and the Association of American Universities.