Podcast Show Notes

2026-05-12 Federal Market Insights Episode 55 — Session Overview

WPI Podcast Episode 55 Summary 

This session provides an overview of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC), a nationwide network of more than 300 federal laboratories and research centers that creates new IP and can assist of federally funded research and technology into commercial products and services. The discussion highlights how businesses can access federal research expertise, technologies, patents, licensing opportunities, and collaborative programs to accelerate innovation and create new market opportunities.

What You Will Learn

The discussion explains the role of the Federal Laboratory Consortium in connecting businesses with federal laboratories, researchers, and technology transfer resources. It explores how federal innovations have successfully transitioned into commercial products, and how small businesses can leverage tools such as technology licensing, Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs), SBIR/STTR partnerships, and Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) to support product development and commercialization. The session also emphasizes the importance of innovation ecosystems and the growing need for new technologies within the Defense Industrial Base.·

• The Federal Laboratory Consortium serves as a gateway to federal research, patents, subject matter experts, and technology commercialization opportunities available to industry.
• Small businesses can use FLC resources, technology transfer programs, and laboratory partnerships to develop innovative products, pursue federal research opportunities, and position themselves for future defense and commercial markets.