Harrison, Richard and Leitch, Claire (2010) Voodoo institution or entrepreneurial university? The role of spin-out companies in the entrepreneurial system. Regional Studies, 44 (9). pp. 1241-1262. ISSN 0034-3404
10.pdf - Submitted Version
Download (375kB)
Abstract
University spin-off companies occupy a prominent position in both government and university policies and aspirations for the commercialization of university research for economic benefit at regional and national levels. However, most university spin-off companies start small and remain small, reflecting founder aspirations, capabilities, and resource endowments. Based on detailed analysis of university spin-offs in Northern Ireland, it is concluded that these companies are technology lifestyle businesses not dynamic high-growth potential start-ups, and it is suggested that the prominence given to spin-offs in the analysis of technology transfer and in discussions of the economic impacts of universities is misplaced.