University innovation ecosystems and innovation channels

Abstract

Universities play a fundamental role in the economy and social development. In this role they use different channels for the inception of innovations in markets. It is still necessary a systematic view capable of identifying the existent innovation channels and their relationship with the university innovation ecosystem. Drawing upon the university-industry literature, this article outlines a conceptual framework about the university innovation channels, the main agents of university innovation ecosystems and their respective roles in the technology-transfer process. This framework is based on three layers: 1 – macro-context; 2 – micro-context; and 3 – internal-context. There are identified three types of innovation channels: 1 – university spin-offs; 2 – cooperation with external agents; and 3 – licensing of patents. This framework is validated by a qualitative approach through visits and interviews with nine agents (4 spin-offs; 1 technology center; 2 science parks; and 2 business incubators) of three different university innovation ecosystems in Brazil. This article contributes to the theory presenting an integrative perspective about the agents of university innovation ecosystems, explaining how they contribute to the university innovation channels insert innovations in markets. For the practice this article can guide the assessment and planning of the improvement of university innovation ecosystems.