GRIC Unveils New IP and Tech Transfer Network to Strengthen Research Commercialization

By Joyce Ayine

The Ghana Research and Industry Collaborative (GRIC) has launched the Ghana Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Network to position Ghana as a continental leader in intellectual property (IP) management and technology transfer. The network aims to define professional standards, shape industry practices, and build an ecosystem where innovation thrives and research delivers real-world impact.

The launch took place at the GEPA Impact Hub during the Ghana Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Conference, held under the theme “Building the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Practice for Innovation and Impact.” The event convened key stakeholders from IP and Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) across universities, research institutions, and industry.

The network is the culmination of a year-long process that began with GRIC’s first convening in January, which sought to establish a professional community for technology transfer practitioners in Ghana. The initiative aims to set standards, enhance coordination, strengthen academia–industry partnerships, and improve the commercialization of research outputs.

A major objective of the network is to create clear career pathways for Ghana’s IP/TTO officers, establish professional recognition within the innovation ecosystem, and ensure practitioners operate within well-defined structures that support effective technology transfer and intellectual property management.

Mrs. Eunice Boahene, Head of the IP and Technology Transfer Unit at KNUST, described the launch as a significant milestone toward shaping technology transfer practice in Ghana and equipping professionals to translate research into tangible societal benefits.

Mrs. Amma Lartey, CEO of Impact Investing Ghana and a GRIC Steering Committee Member, stated that the network provides a formal platform for collaboration among research institutions, universities, businesses, policymakers, and innovation agencies. “We look forward to a fully functional platform that enables intellectual properties to be secured, licensed, used, and transformed into products and brands that generate income and jobs,” she said. She added that the framework will help unlock Ghana’s innovation potential through stronger partnerships.

Mr. Julius Lamptey, Senior Research and Policy Officer at Impact Investing Ghana and a GRIC representative, emphasized that the network is a strategic step toward ensuring Ghana takes IP and technology transfer seriously. He stated that institutions without existing TTO structures will now receive guidance, supported by the Ghana Industrial Property Office, to establish these units and develop career pathways that mainstream IP/TTO practice.

Mr. Gameli Adzaho, Country Technical Lead for the Research and Innovation System for Africa (RISA) Fund, stated that the conference serves as a platform for experts to connect, collaborate, and advocate for reforms that will enhance research commercialization and drive national development.

At the close of the conference, organizers urged stakeholders to commit to strengthening technology transfer, sharing success stories and data, supporting capacity-building efforts, and contributing actively to ensure the long-term success of the network.