Valorisation of knowledge: preliminary results on valorisation paths and obstacles in bringing university knowledge to market

Abstract

The current paper is concerned with exploring the outcomes of valorisation of technology focused research projects in the Netherlands. Drawing on an evaluation of 240 projects at universities in three cities and on in-depth knowledge of almost 50 projects, the paper explores to what extent technology inventions are brought to market and which factors hamper such development. An evaluation after 10 years indicates that a quarter of the projects could be brought to market and that in almost 30% of the projects research is still continuing. Looking back to factors hampering knowledge valorisation, it appears that shortage in the organizational situation at the university at that time is the most important factor. Problems in interaction with the business world are in second place The most important regional factor appears a shortage of financial incentives including easy access to (regional) venture capital. The implications of the results for policymaking and further research are discussed.