Academic researchers’ motivations to engage in university–industry collaboration in cross-border regions

More than ever, universities and policymakers are paying attention to faculty members’ engagement in industries’ projects because university–industry collaboration (UIC) is seen as the key to economic development. However, the UIC differs from country to country, and researchers may have different motivations. This study explored the relationship between university researchers’ motivations and varied UIC channels. A questionnaire was administered to the relevant faculty in public universities in two cross-border regions of Portugal and Spain. Drawing on data gathered from 841 researchers, the results reveal differences in these academics’ motivations to engage in different channels. Pecuniary motivations (i.e., access to funding and commercialization) drive UIC through joint and contract research, while non-pecuniary motivations (i.e., learning opportunities and access to resources) inhibit cooperation through the same two engagement channels. In addition, joint and contract research involvement also depends on researchers’ age, academic status, department size, and field of study. This study provides empirical evidence on the motivations and channels of UIC in two cross-border regions of Portugal and Spain. Furthermore, it presents important results for universities and policymakers who need to increase motivation and improve UIC channels.