Technology maturation programs are designed to provide a link between laboratory research and development products and specific
market needs. For any laboratory invention, additional development or testing may be necessary before an outside party will be
willing to license and commercialize the technology. IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute researchers conducted a review
of relevant academic literature and government documents and interviewed individuals from DOE headquarters, the national
laboratories, and universities. This report discusses the history and implementation of technology maturation programs and
documents the types and characteristics of projects funded, the criteria to select the projects, and the metrics to track the success of
these projects. Both the Federal and university programs provide ideas for creating a DOE-wide program as well as methods for
DOE laboratories wishing to enhance their existing programs.