Technological Transfer in Italy: From University to the Industry: Brief Analysis

Abstract

The knowledge-based economy imposes new competitive challenges on companies and all institutions that contribute to the growth and development of a country. In this new scenario it becomes essential to establish relationships between different institutions, such as companies, universities and research centers to develop innovation in synergy. Innovation is the result of the research that is carried out, above all in the fragmented Italian business landscape, essentially by universities and public research centers. Precisely for this reason it is necessary to have a dialogue between the academic world and the business world in order to activate the technology transfer, essential to make the knowledge functional to the economic exploitation. The policies of support to innovation, engine of growth and development, foresee the activation of many tools that have taken the shape of technology transfer offices, business incubators and university spin-offs. Statistical surveys conducted at the Italian university system level show encouraging and positive data on the development of these tools.