Beyond the ivory towers - exploring knowledge transfer pathways between universities and innovative small-to-medium-size enterprises

Abstract

This paper examines the extent and nature of knowledge transfer using universityindustry relational pathways vis-à-vis generic university-to-industry knowledge transfer pathways. We compare the importance of university-industry knowledge transfer with other sources of knowledge for a sample of innovative SMEs. We also examine whether inter-organisational knowledge transfers are spatially driven, and specifically, the extent to which knowledge is acquired domestically (local and/or national) or internationally. The data employed in this research is based on a self-administered internet questionnaire from 1,226 SME owner-managers in Australia. While there are significant differences between the three size enterprises, the evidence suggests SMEs rely on generic university-industry knowledge transfer pathways rather than universityindustry links with high relational involvement. Moreover, the results indicate SMEs are significantly more likely to rely on organisations other than universities and related R&D enterprises for knowledge acquisition. While collaboration is most likely to occur within the same state/territory, or Australia, 25% of SMEs also collaborate internationally, usually as part of normal supplier-customer relationships, underlining the importance of knowledge acquisition from organisationally proximate partners. The paper concludes by with policy recommendations that may help facilitate university- SME knowledge transfer.