Technology Transfer: Creating the Right Environment

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are viewed as the backbone of many European economies and as an engine house for future economic growth. Many SMEs, however, are constrained by limited technical and other resources that slow down product and process innovation. Universities are seen as key players in both encouraging and supporting economic growth through technology and, more broadly, knowledge-related transfer. To maximize the potential that transfer has to offer, particular attention must be given to creating the right ‘transfer environment’. The success rate of technology transfers depends on the transfer instrument adopted, the stage at which transfer is contemplated, and the successful blending of both ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ systems. The influence of these factors on future economic growth and job creation are reviewed.