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Does Technology Scouting Impact Spin-Out Generation? An Action Research Study in the Context of an Entrepreneurial University

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New Perspectives in Technology Transfer

Part of the book series: FGF Studies in Small Business and Entrepreneurship ((FGFS))

Abstract

This study sheds light on the benefits, challenges, and shortcomings of a new technology scouting program to increase spin-out company creation at an entrepreneurial university. Through a canonical action research approach, it becomes clear that a technology scouting instrument such as a customized technology radar is advantageous to discover and analyze technologies with transfer potential. However, it is not sufficient to sustainably increase spin-out activity. After initial success, the “supply” of technologies and motivated scientists is exhausted. Consequently, the spin-out volume drops sharply. It becomes clear that the widespread lack of genuine entrepreneurial motivation among scientists is a massive hindrance in transferring technologies from the lab into the private sector through spin-out companies. In the medium term, a holistic approach to technology transfer support that complements technology scouting with a structured team matching process might be able to connect technologies with motivated teams and raise the level of spin-out activity again. In the long term, other factors contribute to the development of an entrepreneurial university, such as an adequate incentive system or a focused recruiting strategy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. HWTK—University of Applied Sciences, Bernburger Straße 24/26, 10963, Berlin, Germany

    Christian Schultz

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  1. Christian Schultz
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Correspondence to Christian Schultz .

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  1. Wildau, Germany

    Dana Mietzner

  2. Berlin, Germany

    Christian Schultz

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Schultz, C. (2021). Does Technology Scouting Impact Spin-Out Generation? An Action Research Study in the Context of an Entrepreneurial University. In: Mietzner, D., Schultz, C. (eds) New Perspectives in Technology Transfer. FGF Studies in Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-61477-5_7

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