According to several recent publications, beginning in the fall of 2012, Penn State University will no longer mandate Penn State's ownership of intellectual property associated with industry-funded research. This change in policy and practice does not cover government-funded research. The initiative creates an opportunity for companies that work with Penn State faculty and researchers to secure intellectual property rights from the University. Also, this permits Penn State faculty and researchers to be more entrepreneurial in their efforts to solicit industry funding.

The change contrasts the policy of several other research institutions where universities own and derive revenues from intellectual property. It is expected to strengthen the relationship between the University community and industry, and reduce University expenditures related to intellectual property. The change emphasizes the educational focus of the institution and decreases the focus on licensing revenue opportunities. The initiative clearly will have substantial impact on relationships between companies, professors and researchers, and the University.