Overview
Companies and organizations can partner with the University of Washington’s world-class scientists, staff, and students across more than 280 specialized research centers to discover next-generation solutions to today’s challenges.
To learn more about supporting research programs, contact the corporate relations team. They can introduce you to researchers working in your areas of interest and help get your program started.
Affiliate programs
The UW hosts a number of industry affiliate programs across a variety of disciplines. These programs offer opportunities for companies to:
- Learn about the latest UW research
- Interact with faculty and students
- Network with industry colleagues
Members may enjoy access to resources that foster meaningful long-term engagement.
Sponsored programs
Sponsored programs are scoped research or other sponsored activity involving UW researchers. If there is mutual interest in a project, the researcher and the company will develop a plan that covers the scope, schedule and general cost for the project. Once the UW researcher obtains institutional approval from UW’s Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) of the scope of work, detailed budget, timeline and other details of the activity (a proposal), OSP will work with the company to negotiate an agreement. Agreement considerations are found on the Office of Sponsored Programs website.
Gifts for research
Companies may choose to support research through gifts. Unlike sponsored programs, gifts are philanthropic, and there are no contracted deliverables or intellectual property access. Once the company has decided on a recipient and an amount, the UW’s corporate relations team will work with the company to create a letter documenting the gift for research. Gifts between $1,000 and $5 million are subject to a 5% gift assessment. Companies may also provide gift support to the University through in-kind donations of equipment or software or through discounts on their products.
Sponsored programs vs. gifts for research
| Category | Sponsored programs | Gifts for research |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Specific research project | Project, topic, department, school |
| Documentation | Proposal and legal agreement | Gift letter (no or light terms) |
| Indirect costs | Yes | Yes |
| Deliverables and milestones | Yes | No |
| Intellectual property access | Yes | No |