The Influence of Open Innovation Practices and Quadruple Helix Stakeholder Interactions on the University Technology Transfer Business Model (UTTBM)

Within recent years, Universities have experimented with more collaborative University Technology Transfer Business Models (UTTBMs) and processes recognizing the value of external innovation networks and ecosystems. The aim of... [ view full abstract ]

Within recent years, Universities have experimented with more collaborative University Technology Transfer Business Models (UTTBMs) and processes recognizing the value of external innovation networks and ecosystems. The aim of this paper is to explore how quadruple helix stakeholder interactions have influenced UTTBMs as part of an evolving wider open innovation ecosystem. In order to achieve this, we draw upon comparative case study evidence of two universities located in a peripheral region to explore how the need to engage in more open innovation practices has changed their respective UTTBMs. The empirical evidence revealed that the level of quadruple helix engagement and the ability of UTTBMs to incorporate open innovation practices was dependent on University Technology Transfer (UTT) stage and university type. This paper illustrates the challenges involved in universities opening up their business models to collaborate with industry and end users. Futhermore, it provides insights into how practitioners involved in UTT can maximise the effectiveness of Quadruple Helix influences on their models and processes dependant on UTT stage and university type.