Title: Building successful regional clusters for the commercialisation of micro- and nanotechnologies

Authors: Kevin Yallup

Addresses: Technology for Industry Ltd., e-space north, Littleport, Cambridgeshire CB6 1RA, UK

Abstract: Many regions around the world have R&D organisations that are developing intellectual property in the field of micro- and nanotechnology. There is a strong desire within these regions to leverage the IP being developed for the overall economic benefit of the region. A number of approaches have been tried with varying degrees of success. One of the key outcomes of many programmes is to stimulate the development of a thriving regional cluster following such successful models as the Cambridge Phenomenon in the UK. The anticipated result is the development of a vibrant regional economy with high levels of employment and income arising from the cluster. This paper will discuss a number of the elements that are necessary for the formation of successful regional clusters for the commercialisation of MNT.

Keywords: microtechnology; nanotechnology; economic clusters; commercialisation; technology transfer; open access; regional economies; intellectual property; MNT; UK; United Kingdom.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTTC.2008.021033

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2008 Vol.7 No.4, pp.344 - 361

Published online: 31 Oct 2008 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article