In 2018, grocery stores are being automated, cars are driving themselves, and nontech companies are putting a strong focus on innovation.

And Microsoft Corp.’s chief legal officer has taken note. In a blog post published late Wednesday, president and CLO Brad Smith announced the Redmond, Washington-based company’s Shared Innovation Initiative, which gives nontech companies that innovate using Microsoft’s software or collaborate with Microsoft consultants and engineers ownership of patents produced during these engagements.