What is a government funded invention patent, and what happens to the rights?

In the US, under the Bayh-Dole Act, contractors and small businesses can typically retain ownership of inventions developed with federal funding, while the government retains a non-exclusive licence to use the invention and, in limited circumstances, march-in rights. UK and EU funding bodies reach similar outcomes through grant and contract conditions rather than a single statute. The specific terms depend on the funding agreement and should be reviewed carefully before filing.