National Nanomanufacturing Network: The Small Business section of the New York Times ran a July 16th article highlighting four nanotech companies which have benefited from partnerships with California's financially-strapped university research centers.

NanoH₂0, Matrix Sensors Inc., QuantumSphere Inc., and CFX Battery illustrate the value of technology transfer and the role of the research university in the development of advanced materials and processes for commercial products. In the case of these companies, the products range from membranes for desalination and biosensors to alternative batteries.

Especially during times of economic hardship, partnerships between university research centers and private industry can bring in needed funds, leverage the expertise and the equipment of the centers, and drive forward needed technologies to the public.

Flanigan J. Collaborating for Profits in Nanotechnology. July 16, 2009. New York Times: Business