Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada is updating its Intellectual Property (IP) policy to drive innovation, support transparency, and encourage collaboration in research.
The announcement came on April 10, 2025, as the institution confirmed it is refining its 20-year-old policy to match modern best practices and meet its goals of knowledge sharing and financial stability.
The revised policy, led by Elicia Maine, the University’s associate vice president for knowledge mobilisation and innovation, focuses on removing existing barriers that slow innovation.
Following recent feedback from staff and students, SFU has decided to split the IP policy into two: one for research and another for teaching materials. While the teaching section is still under review, the research IP policy is expected to be released by May.
The proposed changes retain a creator-owned model, granting researchers complete control over their work, particularly when developed outside university resources.
However, the policy introduces clear rules if the research involves university funding or facilities.
Researchers are now required to disclose any commercial ventures that utilise the University’s resources. To support innovation, the University also offers flexible options for researchers who profit from their work.
Those earning over $25,000 annually from commercialised research can either share a portion with the University or give back through mentorship, internships, or similar forms of community engagement.
Students also benefit from this update, as they will continue to retain ownership of their work.
The new policy aims to create more chances for them to turn their ideas into real-world solutions while receiving support from the University.
SFU clarified that it does not take ownership of staff or student IP unless the University officially commissions the work. Brochures, handbooks, and other materials produced at the request of the university remain university-owned.
With this update, SFU aims to position itself among the leading research institutions and foster a stronger culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across its campuses.