Starting a company

If an employee would like to start a company, he/she must enter into an agreement with DTU. For a limited period, a startup/spin-out may take advantage of the incubator facilities at DTU. However, this must not be done subject to terms that can be considered as unfair competition compared to other start-up businesses. Accordingly, a reasonable bench fee must be determined. Furthermore, it is to be agreed how long the business may be located at DTU before it is to move on.

Bench fee agreements and contracts between DTU and private companies concerning the use of DTU’s facilities are to be approved by DTU Technology Transfer.

Agreements on lease of premises at DTU are to be made through DTU Science Park.

Businesses established in cooperation with external parties

When establishing businesses in which DTU receives ownership interest by means of shares/share options, it is important that DTU does not act in conflict with its role of being a university. A university is obligated to communicate results to the public and to co-operate. This is in conflict with the role of a shareholder which involves an obligation to look after the interests of the business.

The problem will probably be most significant under the circumstances where a large existing business wants to cooperate on the establishment of a new business. Under those circumstances it must be ensured that other cooperation partners do not feel forced out of a business area. Furthermore, DTU must ensure that important/central research areas are not cut off by giving a business exclusive rights to future inventions within a wide research area.