Transfer of Knowledge and Technology to Ecuador’s Business Network

Abstract

Currently, universities perform a more leading role in economic growth and social progress, as their mission has extended beyond the scientific character and contributes to the promotion and generation of new ventures, through an established link with industries. The role of higher education institutions today is to support and promote entrepreneurial skill in students and staff in general, so that it is transferred to the reality that today's society faces and timely solutions are given to the needs identified through technology transfer in the implementation of a new spin-off or startup. The data analyzed come from the Science, Technology, and Innovation Activities (STIA) survey for the period 2012–2014. The objective of the study was to analyze cooperation for the transfer of technology and knowledge between public and private organizations and companies in Ecuador. The results show that there is greater cooperation with customers and suppliers. In conclusion, despite the existence of policies aimed at cooperation between government, business, and university, no visible results are evident in the Ecuadorian business network.