An increase in industry-supported academic research is economically and socially desirable. This refers not to industrial philanthropy but to research consistent with a commercial "mission." This increased coupling is advocated because there is fine science and technique created in academia which is not effectively coupled to the nation's commercial innovation system. There is much to be gained for both academia and industry by increasing the coupling. However, establishing links between industry and academia is often fraught with suspicion and ignorance of the other's ways. Into this situation steps the lawyer. He or she can and should play a key role in balancing conflicting interests by detailing risks, assessing their importance against the possible benefits, and by helping clients recognize that different solutions are appropriate to different institutions, different stages of research, and different businesses. Using the preceding as a theme, industrial objectives in funding university research are discussed, comparisons of specific agreements are made, and comments on desirable directions for industry support of university research are provided. (Author/JN)