Qualitative Analysis of the UK University Spin-Out Company Formation and Early Development Process

Igata, Eishi (2005) Qualitative Analysis of the UK University Spin-Out Company Formation and Early Development Process. [Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Based upon the Triple-Helix model of university-industry interaction, this study investigates the technology-based university spin-out companies and the assistance being provided by other stakeholders. The research reveals that the spin-out strategy of the university and the practical assistance by the university are the significant factors of the spin-out companies financial performance.

Using one Nottingham University spin-out company as a model case, detailed qualitative analysis of each stakeholder, technology transfer office, science park and company, was conducted. The analysis firstly revealed that an awareness of the entrepreneurial activities in academia needed to be enhanced. Secondly, the technology transfer office supports up to the stage of the spin-out formation; not up to the stage of the company development. This indicated that the university supported to form the company, but no further assistance was provided.

The Nottingham spin-out model was compared with the Manchester model. In terms of the finance, the Manchester spin-out companies seemed to be outperforming the Nottingham spin-outs. Manchester model had the smooth sequence of the research discovery to the company development within the university premises. The major reason that caused the difference was identified as the existence of the interim funding and the suitable premises within the university. Although it may not be realistic to construct new incubation facilities in Nottingham, this study recommended to utilise the Lachesis Fund for the interim funding and to offer the preferential rent or facility usage of the university towards its spin-out companies. The implementation of the two schemes could enhance the chance of spin-out survival relatively readily.

Item Type: Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)
Keywords: university spin-outs, academic entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial process
Depositing User: EP, Services
Date Deposited: 08 Dec 2005
Last Modified: 01 Jan 2018 20:56
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/20013

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