This study presents data and commentary based on a survey of 19 offices of sponsored research (or offices with similar responsibilities) largely from major universities in the United States and Canada, as well as some non-academic non-profit research organizations. The study helps its readers to answer questions such as: How many sponsored research projects are being conducted and is the trend towards more or less? What scientific fields account for most of the research agreements? How to universities and other research oriented non-profits market themselves to the private sector? How often do they experience conflicts of interest and what do they do about them? How long does it typically take to negotiate contracts? How large are offices of sponsored research? What is the role of advisory boards? Conferences and seminars? Blogging and social media? And much more.