The role of local goverment in SMEs technology transfer

The aim of this paper is to focus on the role of local institutions regarding technology transfer to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The paper is structured as follows. The first section will analyse the problem of knowledge and technology transfer, and explain the necessity for SMEs to utilise networks in order to afford the costs related to innovation. The second section of the paper will explain the demand for technology transfer. In particular the problem will be assessed using a sample group of SMEs belonging to the textile district of Prato. With focus group methodology we investigated the entrepreneurial perspective on three issues: the perception of the local district regarding knowledge needs and technology transfer, the relationship with the technology supplier and finally the relationship between firms and research centres. To conclude we will examine the role of local institutions governing the process of technology transfer. In Triple Helix perspective, we will attempt to describe the evolution, and the management trajectories related to technology and science within locally embedded economic activity.