Ethical Commercialisation: Balancing Profit and Public Good

Commercialisation isn’t just about making money; it’s about making a meaningful impact as well. But what happens when profit motives clash with public interest? Ethical commercialisation means striking a balance where your research generates revenue without sacrificing accessibility, equity, or societal benefit.

The Problem

When researchers commercialise their findings, the outcome can sometimes lead to products that are too costly for the very communities that need them. For instance, breakthrough medicines may price out low-income patients, leaving them without access to vital treatments. A prominent example is the Hepatitis C drug Sovaldi, which was priced at $1,000 per pill, spotlighting the tension between profit and public health.

Moreover, technologies may be used in ways that go against the researchers' original intentions. This misalignment can cause reputational risks and ethical challenges, creating dilemmas for those who aim to do good with their work.

For socially impactful research, the challenge lies in ensuring that commercialisation benefits both investors and the communities served.

Researchers collaborating on a project

The Possibility

It is feasible to design commercial models that harmonise financial sustainability with social good. For instance, tiered pricing strategies in healthcare can make essential medicines more affordable in lower-income regions. The idea is simple: charge higher prices in wealthier markets while offering discounts in those with limited financial resources.

Open-access licensing for educational tools serves as another example. By making research available to everyone, researchers can elevate collective knowledge while still generating returns through other means, such as partnerships or consulting services.

In addition, creating ethical frameworks in licensing agreements can protect against misuse and exploitation. When executed effectively, ethical commercialisation fosters trust, enhances brand reputation, and models long-term positive impact.

The Solution

Approaches to Monetizing your Research

1 December 2025 at 10:00 – 4 December 2025 at 16:00Lekki

Register Now

The upcoming Translational Research Forum will focus on building socially responsible commercialisation models. You will discover:

• How to integrate social impact clauses into licensing agreements

• Funding models designed for ventures that prioritize accessibility

• Real-world case studies where ethical principles led to market success

• Strategies to communicate your ethical position to investors and partners

  
  

Through engaging case studies, attendees will see how researchers have successfully implemented these principles in practice. This proves that it is possible to generate profit while also making a difference in society.

The Call to Action

Your research can change the world—without compromising your values. Join us at the Translational Research Forum to learn how to commercialise ethically and sustainably.

👉 Sign up today—because true impact is measured in both profit and purpose.