Giving It Away : Free Technology Transfer to the Irish SME Sector

Peter Kavanagh, Andy Maguire, James J. Casey

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

One of Europe’s major weaknesses lies in its inferiority in terms of transforming the results of technological research and skills into innovations and competitive advantages. (European Commission, 1995, p. 8.) Technology transfer is a key aspect of economic development and research administration. These concerns are shared equally between academia and industry on both sides of the Atlantic. As technology is developed at a greater rate, concerns about the technology transfer will heighten. This article focuses on technology transfer in Ireland, particularly in the SME (Small and Medium size Enterprises, under 250 employees) sector. As the main Lisbon Objective has not been met in Europe (“Europe is to become the most competitive and dynamic knowledge based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion”), the authors suggest a better model of technology transfer applicable not only to Ireland and Europe, but with possibilities for the United States. Demonstrating the international dimensions of technology transfer, the article also provides an American perspective, demonstrating commonality of interest yet subtle differences.
Original languageEnglish
JournalResearch Management Review
Volume15
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2006

Keywords

  • technology transfer
  • economic development
  • research administration
  • SME sector
  • Lisbon Objective
  • knowledge based economy
  • international dimensions
  • American perspective

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Giving It Away : Free Technology Transfer to the Irish SME Sector'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this