ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEMS IN TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: A CASE STUDY ON SUCCESSFUL INNOVATION COMMERCIALIZATION

This study aimed to explore the factors leading to the successful commercialisation of innovations generated through technology transfer and its connection to an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Using a post-positivist research paradigm, the study applied a qualitative case study on university technology transfers with proven track records. Findings showed that technology transfer must be integrated throughout the university, motivated professors and inventors, and have support from networks, mentorship, and private funding. The university should incentivise innovation and align its goals with the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recommendations include integrating innovation commercialisation with the surrounding entrepreneurial ecosystem and treating innovators as owners of their research. Following these suggestions will increase the number of successful innovations and sectoral specialisation in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.