Lexington, KY, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky recently held its annual Patent Palooza event to acknowledge record-breaking achievements in intellectual property, featuring collaborations with Lockheed Martin. UK issued 61 patents and executed 40 licenses in the latest fiscal year, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and enterprise. The event also highlighted the completion of the UAccel program, showcasing 29 innovative teams and celebrating partnerships that enhance workforce development in the aerospace sector through Lockheed Martin’s investment in the region.
Lexington, KY – The University of Kentucky (UK) celebrated its record-breaking accomplishments in intellectual property and collaboration with Lockheed Martin during the annual Patent Palooza! 2025. The event took place at the Gatton Student Center on September 23, bringing together campus innovators and corporate partners to acknowledge significant achievements in innovation and entrepreneurial growth.
In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2025), UK achieved a remarkable milestone by issuing the highest number of patents and executing the most licenses in its history. Specifically, UK saw a total of 61 patents granted and 40 licenses and options executed. This success stems from a proactive approach to research and innovation, leading to the second-highest number of inventions disclosed in the institution’s history.
The event also highlighted the completion of the UAccel program through Launch Blue, which saw 29 teams successfully demonstrating their innovations. Furthermore, UK innovators were recognized for receiving four Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) awards, underscoring the various paths taken toward collaborative innovation.
As part of the celebration, a multimedia presentation showcased four faculty members in an initiative called “I am a UK Innovator”, with plans to release detailed spotlights on their contributions later this fall. Such efforts aim to inspire the campus community and potential external partners by highlighting the real-world impacts of UK’s inventive endeavors.
The collaboration with Lockheed Martin adds another layer to UK’s innovative ecosystem. Lockheed Martin, a leading American defense and aerospace manufacturer, expanded its footprint in Lexington with the recent opening of the Lexington Engineering Center of Excellence on August 18. This expansion is expected to create 70 new full-time jobs, reinforcing UK’s relationship with the aerospace sector and enhancing workforce development in the region.
Currently, Lockheed Martin employs approximately 1,500 individuals in Kentucky and actively collaborates with UK on various projects, particularly for U.S. Special Operations Command. This partnership is pivotal in equipping future engineers with relevant skills to meet industry demands while pushing forward with innovative solutions.
Additionally, the Coldstream Research Campus has been highlighted as a tech-friendly environment for businesses, researchers, and entrepreneurs. UK President Eli Capilouto emphasized the significance of such spaces in fostering collaborations that align with the state’s economic needs.
Aerospace products emerged as Kentucky’s top export in FY 2025, valued at approximately $13.8 billion. This figure underscores the vital role that collaboration between academic institutions like UK and global manufacturing giants like Lockheed Martin plays in bolstering the state’s economy.
Moreover, the UK Board of Trustees is exploring a new business model known as Champions Blue, LLC, aimed at increasing flexibility in the UK Athletics Department while identifying new revenue streams. This strategic approach aligns with evolving challenges and opportunities within intercollegiate athletics, further fortifying UK’s role in both sports and education.
As universities increasingly adapt to changing economic landscapes, UK’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and strategic partnerships illustrates a forward-thinking approach to education and workforce development, ensuring it remains a leader in both academic and industrial spheres.
FAQ
What is Patent Palooza! 2025?
Patent Palooza! 2025 is an annual event held by the University of Kentucky to celebrate campus innovators and showcase achievements in intellectual property creation and entrepreneurial growth.
How many patents were issued by UK in FY 2025?
In Fiscal Year 2025, the University of Kentucky issued a record total of 61 patents.
What is the significance of the partnership with Lockheed Martin?
The partnership with Lockheed Martin strengthens workforce development and fosters collaboration to prepare future engineers while boosting regional economic growth.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Purpose | Celebrate campus innovators and achievements in intellectual property. |
| Patents Issued | 61 patents granted in FY 2025, a record number for UK. |
| Licenses Executed | 40 licenses and options executed in FY 2025. |
| Invention Disclosures | Second-highest number of inventions disclosed in UK history. |
| Job Creation | Lockheed Martin’s expansion will create 70 new full-time jobs in Lexington. |
| Aerospace Exports | Aerospace products were Kentucky’s top export, valued at $13.8 billion last year. |
| Collaboration Model | Exploration of the Champions Blue, LLC model for UK Athletics Department. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox 56 News: UK Healthcare Leads Region with Robotic Surgery Innovation
- Wikipedia: University of Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: Breaking Business News
- Google Search: University of Kentucky News
- UK Athletics: New Model for College Athletics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Kentucky
- Lane Report: UK Gray Design Building Innovation
- Google Scholar: Patents University of Kentucky
- Lane Report: Cancer Treatment Innovations at UK
- Google News: UK Markey Research Day
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