Title: A partnering business model for technology transfer: the case of the Muenster University of Applied Sciences

Authors: Antonio G. Dottore, Thomas Baaken, David Corkindale

Addresses: Entrepreneurship, Commercialisation and Innovation Centre, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia. ' Science-to-Business Marketing Research Centre, Muenster University of Applied Sciences, Corrensstrasse 25, 48149 Muenster, Germany. ' International Graduate School of Business, University of South Australia, G.P.O. Box 2471, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001, Australia

Abstract: Theory and practice of technology transfer and entrepreneurial behaviour of academics are novel. We draw upon the literature of business models, transaction costs, professional and organisational culture and of agency theory to formulate a framework for a technology transfer business model. We present the range of options used by universities and we examine the spin out option, as context and contrast to the MUAS approach. The case of the MUAS is presented. It illustrates the conceptual framework developed and has thus far been successful in its specific environment. Replication might require adaptation, but this particular approach can offer useful lessons. Tentative hypotheses for research on business model adaptation are derived from the study.

Keywords: technology transfer; commercialisation; agency theory; transaction costs; organisational culture; professional culture; incentive structures; spin outs; partnerships; partnering; organisational capabilities; regional economic development; regions; Muenster University of Applied Sciences; higher education; universities; Germany; academic behaviour; conceptual frameworks; replication; entrepreneurship; innovation management; business models; human capital.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2010.034421

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2010 Vol.12 No.2, pp.190 - 216

Published online: 03 Aug 2010 *

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