일본의 개방형 혁신전략: 산학협력을 중심으로(Open Innovation in Japan: Focusing on Cooperation between Businesses and National Universities)

일본의 혁신생태계는 최근 상당한 변화를 보이고 있다. 일본 혁신생태계를 구성하는 핵심 주체들의 행동양식이 과거와는 사뭇 다른 양상을 보이고 있기 때문이다. 대기업들은 전통적인 폐쇄형 혁신체제를 벗어나서 외부의 혁신주체들과 협력적인 관계를 통해 새로운 기술과 사업영역을 확보하려 노력하기 시작하였다. 이러한 변화가 구체적인 성공사례로 이어질지 예단할 수는 없지만, 일본기업들이 적어도 과거와 같은 ‘자사중심주의(自前主義)’를 극복하고자 하는 것만은 틀림없다. In this study we examine the current state of industry-academic cooperation conducted at Japan’s national universities and government policies to support these cooperation programs, also analyzing cases of industry-academic cooperation by major national university foundations (the University of Tokyo, Osaka University, Kyoto University, and Kyushu University). Cooperation between businesses and universities is on the rise within Japan, centered on joint research projects and venture incubator programs at universities. According to data released by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, a total of 2,278 new venture companies were formed on university campuses in the year of 2018 alone. How can we explain the recent rise in active cooperation between businesses and universities in Japan? To formulate a comprehensive answer to this question, this study examines policy efforts by the Japanese government, measures taken to reorganize industry-academic cooperation systems at universities, and changes in innovative strategies adopted by businesses.