From transfer to co-creation: Charting the prospects for university-industry cooperation

Abstract

This study documents the evolution of university-industry cooperation (UIC) intermediaries and identifies implications for management and policy. By applying topic modelling to around 150 research papers on the dynamics of UIC intermediaries, it finds a transition from a linear perspective of university-industry technology transfer to more systemic relationships based on co-creation. This work also sheds light on themes previously hidden in the literature that have implications for practice and policy The findings highlight the leadership role of intermediaries, emphasising proactive stakeholder engagement as central to effective university-industry cooperation. It also underlines the importance of intermediaries in actively connecting university and industry and anticipating trends.