Complementary and synergistic competencies in technology transfer: A new model of a spin-off creation program.

Knowledge transfer aims at promoting and fostering the transformation of ideas with high innovation content emerging from university research into various innovation vehicles, among which start-ups and (university) spin-offs. One of the major obstacles that hinder the success of this type of firms is the scant level of entrepreneurial competencies possessed by the academic and technical team. Drawing from the complementary competencies perspective of the RBV theory of the firm, the present study describes the spin-off creation program implemented at the University of Florence Incubator. The purpose is to investigate how the synergistic integration of business students’ managerial skills and scientific-based business projects can bridge the gap between entrepreneurship education and technology transfer within the university environment. We conclude that the joint presence of technical and managerial competencies may be favored by specific methods and must also be supported by an appropriate strategic orientation concerning the implementation of the third mission of the university.