Enablers and inhibitors of science commercialization: a predictive framework

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to propose a conceptual framework for measuring, comparing or predicting the science commercialization capability of academic research-driven organizations. Drawing on extant literature on innovation commercialization, two influential predictors were explored and the nature of their influence was proposed. Design/methodology/approach Based on the theoretical analysis of relevant literature on science commercialization, this conceptual paper proposes a predictive framework along with two critical antecedents – patronage and parochialism. The analysis further reveals their sub-dimensions and provides insights into how patronage and parochialism can be measured within empirical settings. The study concludes with theoretical propositions about how these two constructs influence science commercialization. Findings The study reveals that patronage can positively influence science commercialization and be reflected through mentorship, specialized knowledge-sharing and providing decision-making support to academic innovators pursuing science commercialization. Alternatively, parochialism can positively influence science commercialization and be reflected through academic innovators’ perception, purpose and persistence of efforts toward science commercialization initiatives. Originality/value The study contributes to extant literature on science commercialization in three major ways – a conceptual predictive model, theoretically grounded antecedents and their corresponding influence on science commercialization.