KTH Innovation Readiness Level™

DTU has decided to use the KTH Innovation Readiness Level™ (IRL) model across the DTU innovation eco-system, as our common tool to assess the maturity and progression of innovation cases. KTH Innovation has developed the IRL model and given DTU a license to use it.

The model assesses the innovation case on a scale from 1 to 9 in six key dimensions of innovation development, listed below. For each dimension, clear definitions of the different levels are given as well as milestones and activities that are needed to reach each level.

By using the model on an invention step by step, a number of standard issues are verified, and the invention matures through the milestones that are critical for success in early phase innovation development.

The model gives both inventors, innovation partners and commercialisation managers a common language and clear picture of the status and maturity of the invention.

It also provides structure and guidance on which areas need to be addressed, and which generic steps need to be taken to move on to the next level. Inventors will benefit greatly from the model due to its clear, uncomplicated and visual framework.

The model is integrated in the DTU patenting and commercialisation process, and it is used to evaluate and prioritise the invention based on quantifiable levels of maturity. KTH Innovation Readiness Level™ also allows for measuring and following up through quantifying status and progress.

The six dimensions of the KTH Innovation Readiness Model™ are:

  • Team Readiness Level (TMRL): build, develop and align the team
  • Technology Readiness Level (TRL): develop and test technology
  • IPR Readiness Level (IPRL): explore and develop suitable IP protection
  • Customer Readiness Level (CRL): confirm market need and interest
  • Business Readiness Level (BRL): confirm business model and financial potential
  • Funding Readiness Level (FRL): prepare for investment and secure funding
KTH Innovation Readiness Level

If you want to learn more or have questions about the IRL model, please contact the Innovation Partner from DTU Skylab assigned to your department, or visit www.kthinnovationreadinesslevel.com.

Contact

Tomas Brink Wikborg Office for Research, Advice and Innovation Mobile: +45 42741079

Updated 19 januar 2026