Title Variables that Determine the Characteristics of University Spin-Off Support Programs

Abstract

The creation of knowledge-based firms has become particularly important in recent decades, bringing with it a proliferation of university support programs for setting up spin-offs. Nonetheless, there is no single model of support program for the creation of spin-offs. Indeed, what characterizes these programs is precisely that heterogeneity, and it is therefore difficult to establish criteria for classification. There may be different ways of doing so, all valid, but difficult to group. Using a review of the literature, this paper identifies a number of variables that determine the characteristics of support programs for setting up academic spin-offs: the origin of the initiative; area of activity; objectives; funding for the program; type of spin-off to which support is provided; organization of the support activities; degree of integration and degree of autonomy. It goes on to establish the conditions under which it appears that they should go in one direction or other and identifies four basic models: programs established at low-quality universities with unfavorable environments; programs established in high-quality universities with unfavorable environments; programs established at low-quality universities with favorable environments and programs established in high-quality universities with favorable environments. The results of the study may provide a good guide for academic authorities involved in implementing support programs for creating spin-offs or for improving the efficiency of existing programs.