Entrepreneurship Stimulation in Regional Innovation Systems - Public Promotion of University-Based Start-Ups in Germany

Abstract

Examines the promotion of innovation and conditionsfor start-ups at the regional level in Germany, the role that higher educationinstitutions can play in promoting entrepreneurship in regions,andencouragement ofnetwork formation. This investigation is basedon the five EXIST regions in Germany (Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, Jena, Wuppertal,and Dresden), sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Education and Research forthe goal of promoting university-based start-ups. Explores the role of higher education institutions in regional innovationsystems, the roles of networks and spatial proximity, and public policies tosupportnetwork formation. Drawing from characteristics of the five EXISTregions, discusses aspects of network building and obstacles to networking. Finds thatis difficult to create a link between networkcharacteristics and target achievements of the networks, measured in number offirms established. Identifies characteristics of the regional networks that maycontribute to the potential for business founding: the networksare linkedwith university units; they benefit from participation with higher education;they are based on competition within the network; cooperation is viewed aspositive, and a regional environment stimulates entrepreneurship. The EXISTprogram positively influences regional network formation and the integration ofuniversities in the regional innovation system. (TNM)

Keywords: German Federal Ministry for Education & Research, EXIST, Regional innovation systems, Business assistance programs, Regional policies, Regions, Clusters, Higher education, Innovation process, Startups, Colleges & universities, Regional development, Social networks, University spinouts, University-firm relations, Learning networks