Licensed Start-up Companies

Licensed Start-up Companies (LSCs) are non-publicly traded companies that have an option or license agreement for University of Pittsburgh technology and in which the University or a University Member or a member of their immediate family have an ownership interest.

Relationships with these companies and their interactions with the University are governed by University Policy RI01.

All relationships with these companies, whether paid or unpaid, require the approval of the Conflict of Interest Committee (COIC) and must follow all Outside Activity requirements.

There is an approximate two to three week turnaround time from the COI Division’s receipt of new LSC information to facilitate placement on the COIC monthly meeting agenda.

Innovation Institute

For more information on technology commercialization, as well as optioning or licensing University-owned intellectual property, the Innovation Institute's licensing managers are available to assist.

LSC Approval Process

Review the required COI approval process for new LSCs formed by faculty, staff, and students at all University of Pittsburgh campuses.

LSC Policy Compliance Statement

University members who own equity or who hold a management, officer or other fiduciary position in an LSC must sign a Policy Compliance Statement (PCS). The PCS helps ensure that University Members are aware of and will act in accordance with their obligations under University policy.