Innovation Intermediaries as Public Entrepreneurs: The Case of the Swedish University Holding Companies

Principal Topic There is a strong belief that universities can make major contributions to innovation, economic growth and societal welfare in general. Much emphasis is, therefore, placed on policy instruments that facilitate... [ view full abstract ]

Principal Topic
There is a strong belief that universities can make major contributions to innovation, economic growth and societal welfare in general. Much emphasis is, therefore, placed on policy instruments that facilitate the rapid commercialization of university research. In this respect, various types of innovation intermediaries (II), including incubators, science parks, technology transfer offices, State-owned limited companies, etc., have emerged as major policy tools in many countries. Underpinning most of recent literature is Howell´s (2006, p 720) definition of II as ´an organization or body that acts as an agent or broker in any aspect of the innovation process between two or more parties`. The view of II as a form of entrepreneurial actors has received little attention (Peng, et al, 2014). By analyzing four State-owned II located at four Swedish Universities through the lense of the theory of public entrepreneurship (Oström, 1965;Klein, et al, 2009; Hjorth, 2013), this study attempts to fill this gap. In doing so, the intermediary and intermediation concepts are problematized.

Method
The search design is multiple case studies (Yin, 1989). Case selection is based on theoretical sampling and access. Multiple data collection techniques have been employed. The cases are analyzed through within and cross-analysis.