A Description of University-Industry R&D Collaboration in the United States

Abstract

Finding ways to channel knowledge, know-how, and technology from universities to industry for the benefit of the nation became an important public policy issue for the U.S. beginning in the late 1970s, the beginning of the era of global competition. Concern over declining rates of economic growth and reduced competitiveness of U.S. industry resulted in a policy approach that emphasized improving the linkages between U.S. firms and research universities. The policy goal was to improve the condition of firms, especially in innovation-intense industries, by using university research results and personnel to bring to the market new or improved products, processes, and services. Reacting to financial pressures, universities were receptive to the incentives included in the legislation and adopted a mission of research partnership with industry. Responding first to their declining competitiveness and later to the organizational stress created by corporate restructuring, the private sector also engaged in concerted efforts to link to universities.