Starting or Owning a Company While at USU
Key Considerations
Your primary professional commitment remains to the university.
Time spent on a start‑up must not interfere with teaching, research, or service.
Consulting or outside activities may require approval.
Using University Resources
University space, equipment, supplies, and email may not be used for company activities.
Tax‑exempt facilities cannot be used in ways that advantage a for‑profit business.
Clear separation between university and company activities is essential.
Intellectual Property Matters
If you developed the company’s technology while employed by or enrolled at USU—even outside work hours—USU may have ownership rights.
Technology Transfer Services can help assess ownership.
Related Policies
- Policy 4106 (Intellectual Property)
- Policy 4107 (Research Data)
Your Role in the Company
Common roles:
- Founder
- Owner
- Manager
- Consultant
- Advisor
Faculty should be mindful of these potential COI risks:
- Fiduciary obligations to the company may compete with university responsibilities
- Overlapping university and company responsibilities may create situations where decisions, effort, or use of resources could benefit both roles, potentially compromising objectivity
- Unclear role boundaries may lead to situations where others cannot distinguish whether you are acting as a faculty member or company representative, creating risk of bias or undue influence
Representing the University