Fast Lane UGent: setting up a spin-off faster (Fast Lane & Fast Lane Mini).

What is Fast Lane?

Fast Lane is a UGent-approved standard track for researchers who want to valorise their research through a spin-off. The goal is to make the incorporation process faster, simpler and more predictable, with less negotiation work and less legal/financial uncertainty.[1]

Why is this interesting?

• You work with predefined standard terms (no “starting from scratch” trajectory for each spin-off).
• Less time lost in negotiations, more focus on building your company.
• Clear baseline agreements on intellectual property (IP), patents and governance.[1]

Key features (summary)

According to the UGent TechTransfer communication, the Fast Lane model includes, among other things:[1]

• a limited, non-diluting equity stake for UGent
• a fixed, low royalty on sales
• standardised licence and shareholders’ agreements
• clear ground rules on IP/patents and governance

Fast Lane Mini

Alongside the standard track, there is an alternative: Fast Lane Mini, intended for smaller spin-offs or cases where equity is less suitable. In that track, UGent is compensated via a low royalty and a success fee upon sale/acquisition.[1]

Where can you find the details?

• Public announcement (TechTransfer Office): https://techtransfer.ugent.be/nl/news/fast-lane-regeling-goedgekeurd-ugent-versnelt-oprichting-spin-offs-met-nieuw-standaardtraject[1]
• Details on the UGent intranet (🔒): https://ugentbe.sharepoint.com/sites/intranet-onderzoek/SitePages/UGent-raamwerk-voor-spin-offs.aspx[1]

Next step

Are you a UGent researcher and want to know whether Fast Lane (or Fast Lane Mini) fits your situation? Start with the intranet page above and then contact the TechTransfer Office for guidance and intake.[1]