Entrepreneurial university: an exploratory model for higher education

Purpose The paper aims to clarify the characteristics of the entrepreneurial university, beyond commercial entrepreneurship to other aspects of entrepreneurship, such as social or different demands for solutions to problems in society, and integrate the entrepreneurial practices between teaching, research, extension and innovation within an entrepreneurial ecosystem. The purpose of this study was to propose an entrepreneurial university model that contemplates elements and guidelines. Design/methodology/approach The paper opted for qualitative research of exploratory methodological approach and case study with units of analysis (management, technological innovation nucleus, academic units and ecosystem) in a Brazilian public university. For data collection, we used semi-structured interviews as primary data, and as a secondary, documentary survey, using as reference the theoretical model based on the bibliographic mapping. Findings The analyzed university is still in the process of transforming into an entrepreneurial university, and for that, it is necessary to devise strategies in a set. In addition, to giving new meaning to the concept of the entrepreneurial university, we reorganized the characteristics into dimensions, and we suggested guidelines. Research limitations/implications Due to the search approach chosen, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed model further in different contexts, as non-technological, for example. Practical implications This study presents the understanding that different areas of knowledge can incorporate extension activities and contribute to the transformation of traditional universities into entrepreneurs and, starting point for other empirical studies. Social implications An entrepreneurial university incorporates its social role as it meets the demands of society. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identified need to expand the characteristics of an entrepreneurial university within an entrepreneurial ecosystem.