The OECD report “University-Industry Collaboration: New Evidence and Policy Options” provides fresh insights into the impacts of public research on innovation and explores effective policy instruments to foster science-industry knowledge transfer.
Key points of the report
- Impact of Public Research
- Universities and public research institutions (PRIs) significantly contribute to innovation through patenting and collaborative research.
- Proximity to universities boosts local industry patenting activities.
- Academic Start-ups
- Academic start-ups, particularly those founded by students and researchers, play a crucial role in commercializing research.
- Support for student entrepreneurship is essential for fostering innovation.
- Policy Instruments
- A variety of financial, regulatory, and soft policy instruments are used to support knowledge transfer.
- Effective policy mixes include grants for collaborative research, tax incentives, and support for spin-offs.
- Governance and Autonomy
- Greater autonomy for universities and PRIs allows them to implement tailored knowledge transfer programs.
- Performance contracts and industry participation in governance enhance the focus on innovation.
- Emerging Trends
- Emphasis on quality over quantity in spin-off support.
- Adaptation of policies to the digital transformation and global innovation networks.
Conclusion
The report highlights the importance of a coherent policy mix and governance mechanisms to enhance university-industry collaboration, ultimately driving innovation and economic growth.
