Opportunity to collaborate using a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)
ID: 24_06Type: Special Notice
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ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OFRichland, WA, US

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Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life SciencesT (54171)
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    The Department of Energy, through Sandia National Laboratories, is offering an opportunity for collaboration via a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with non-federal entities, including businesses, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies. This initiative aims to leverage Sandia's advanced technologies and expertise to enhance innovation, commercialization capabilities, and support the missions of the U.S. Department of Energy. The CRADA framework fosters joint efforts in research and technology transfer, ensuring the protection of commercially valuable information while promoting local economic growth and industry advancements. Interested parties are encouraged to express their interest by contacting the CRADA Team at CRADA@sandia.gov for further engagement.

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    The document outlines the Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) process at Sandia National Laboratories, enabling collaboration between federal and non-federal entities to advance research and technology transfer. Key benefits of a CRADA include access to unique personnel and technologies, negotiation for licenses to intellectual property, and resource combination for R&D objectives. Essential prerequisites for initiating a CRADA include a written statement of work, legal terms acceptance, identification of funding sources, Department of Energy (DOE) project approval, and intellectual property negotiations. The document emphasizes the importance of defining existing intellectual property to prevent ownership disputes and mentions funding types: Funds-In (cash contributions) and In-Kind (non-cash contributions of services or equipment). A structured execution process is outlined, including defining collaboration needs, cost determination, and formal agreement on terms. The CRADA aims to foster strategic partnerships that ultimately contribute to cutting-edge research and commercialization opportunities. The summary serves as a guide for potential participants in understanding the CRADA mechanism within the context of federal grants and RFPs.
    The document outlines a collaborative opportunity offered by Sandia National Laboratories, operated by National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia (NTESS), under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). This initiative invites non-federal entities—including businesses, nonprofits, universities, and other government agencies—to engage in research partnerships that align with the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) missions. Through a CRADA, participants can access Sandia’s advanced technologies and expertise, enhancing innovation and commercialization capabilities. The collaborative framework of the CRADA distinguishes it from other technology transfer mechanisms by fostering joint efforts to develop proprietary solutions. NTESS aims to support local economic growth and boost industry-wide advancements via this partnership while ensuring the protection of commercially valuable information. Interested parties are encouraged to express their interest in collaborative efforts. This document serves as an invitation to leverage research resources for mutual benefit among the various stakeholders involved.
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