Open innovation in public sector: research-based spin-offs resources and performance

Purpose The open innovation (OI) phenomenon is spreading among public organizations. One of the OI practices used by the public research centres to market their technologies is to set up new business entities called research-based spin-offs (RBSOs). Many studies have focused on spin-offs but there are still some gaps. Design/methodology/approach To overcome the existing limitations, the authors built a framework which they tested on three previous case studies. The aim of this study is to verify and improve the framework assessing the evolution and importance of the technological, human, social and financial resources of an Indian RBSO throughout its four stages of development by Vohora et al (2004). Findings The results obtained show how a parent organization and its incubator can play fundamental roles in creating and developing a successful RBSO. This is done by supplying managerial staff and providing access to skills, funds and other material and immaterial resources. Research limitations and contribution The limitations of this study are related to the sectoral and geopolitical factors of the single case analysed. For this reason, the observations that emerge should be supported by other empirical analyses. Nevertheless, the findings of this study can offer a better understanding of the spin-off life to managers, researchers, public organizations and government agencies. They can learn how to improve policies and practices of technology transfer and strengthen the national industrial system.