Organizing knowledge transfer between university and agri-business firms

Purpose – The current competitive context considers knowledge and innovation as the main strategic keys for the survival of organizations (Dankbaar, 2003; Hayter, 2016). From this perspective, the Universities represent the main producer and disseminator of new knowledge, useful for generating a competitive advantage. In recent years the university is opening up towards the entrepreneurial system. This opening of the university, which includes all actions aimed at introducing new knowledge and technologies into the entrepreneurial system, is defined as entrepreneurial university" (Etzkowitz, 2003). In according to Pacheco et al. (2011), the introduction of new knowledge contributes to generating value throughout in an economic sector. The link between new knowledge and competitive advantage is even more evident in traditional sectors such as agri-business. In fact, the agri-business sector requires knowledge management practices that increase the competitiveness of firms. The main effect is the creation of new innovative firms that base their competitive advantage on the results of university research. It emerges such a strong integration with the university system and the importance of effective knowledge transfer mechanisms. For this reason, the present study intends to analyze the KT mechanisms and the impact on agribusiness firms, with the aim of understanding the dynamics supporting innovation Design/methodology/approach – This study is based on an exploratory-descriptive study of a qualitative nature. In particular, the objective of this research is to understand the knowledge transfer phenomenon between university and innovative agri-business firms. To achieve this aim, a case study was observed (Yin, 2012). The chosen case study has some peculiar characteristics. In particular, the product offered on the market was created by enhancing the results of an academic research after having participated in a competition program of business ideas Originality/value – The study offers a mapping of agri-business firms that have developed or are developing collaboration agreements with public university facilities. Furthermore, it provides reflections on knowledge transfer mechanisms between universities in the agri-business sector Practical implications – The results of this research highlight the effects of the third mission in the university system and its organizational evolution. In particular, the study analyzes the mechanisms of knowledge transfer between universities and the entrepreneurial fabric, especially in the agri-business sector. The study can help universities manage KT's mechanisms more effectively with the aim of generating new business organizations.