Does Technology Scouting Impact Spin-Out Generation? An Action Research Study in the Context of an Entrepreneurial University

This study sheds light on the benefits, challenges, and shortcomings of a new technology scouting program to increase spin-out company creation at an entrepreneurial university. Through a canonical action research approach, it becomes clear that a technology scouting instrument such as a customized technology radar is advantageous to discover and analyze technologies with transfer potential. However, it is not sufficient to sustainably increase spin-out activity. After initial success, the “supply” of technologies and motivated scientists is exhausted. Consequently, the spin-out volume drops sharply. It becomes clear that the widespread lack of genuine entrepreneurial motivation among scientists is a massive hindrance in transferring technologies from the lab into the private sector through spin-out companies. In the medium term, a holistic approach to technology transfer support that complements technology scouting with a structured team matching process might be able to connect technologies with motivated teams and raise the level of spin-out activity again. In the long term, other factors contribute to the development of an entrepreneurial university, such as an adequate incentive system or a focused recruiting strategy.