Exploring the role of complementary competencies in technology transfer: A new model for spin-off creation programs

Knowledge transfer aims to promote and foster the transformation of ideas, with highly innovative content emerging from university research into various innovation vehicles, including start-ups and (university) spin-offs. One major obstacle hindering the success of this type of firms is the scant level of entrepreneurial competencies possessed by academic and technical teams. Drawing from the complementary competencies perspective of RBV theory, the present study describes a spin-off creation program implemented at the University of Florence Incubator. We investigate how the synergistic integration of business students’ managerial skills in scientific-based business projects can bridge the gap between entrepreneurship education and technology transfer within the university environment. We conclude that specific methods may encourage technical and managerial competencies to develop in synergy in order to establish successful spin-offs and to implement the third mission of the university.