Bringing SMEs to the University

Abstract

This paper addresses the difficulties that a university has to overcome if it is to interact successfully with firms and other organizations in its region. Various means of overcoming these difficulties are described. Involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in university–industry cooperative activities is, however, especially problematic. The author argues that this can be achieved in a relatively simple way by the construction of networks organized around a university's core research areas. She describes and assesses the practical experiences arising from Aalborg University's implementation of a number of such networks, highlighting the benefits to SMEs and key aspects of the administrative structure that have ensured its success.