In recent years, considerable attention has been directed toward higher educations role as a driver of economic reform. Yet, surprisingly little is known about the processes and mechanisms by which academic innovations are successfully commercialized. The specific question is, what factors explain why some licensed innovations become bona fide products for societal benefits and other languish or fail? Based on case studies of successful transfers of university-developed technologies, this study offers insights on a set of issues surrounding the faculty inventor, technology transfer office, and licensing firm relationship that contribute to the knowledge of the technology transfer phenomenon. Case one focused on the discovery and commercialization of an innovative means of delivering pain medication to cancer patients. Case two explored the development and licensing of a tartar control product for pets and other animals. Case three focused on the development of an Internet-based video conferencing tool at a Northeastern university. Case four investigated the experience of faculty on opposite coasts with related research streams in neuroscience that ultimately partnered to develop a software aid for language skill development in children with learning skill difficulties. Three themes emerged from these studies: (1) the centrality of faculty involvement through all phases of development; (2) the importance of alignment of incentive structures with institutional and faculty culture; and (3) the importance of an environment of mutual trust and openness. (Contains 36 references.) (SLD)