The Role of the Entrepreneurial University to Improve Innovation in Region
Christian Corsi, Antonio Prencipe

Abstract
The paper aims to explore the impact of patenting activity, university spin-offs (USOs), business incubators and Science Parks on regional innovation. Based on a panel sample of 53 Italian universities, 621 Italian USOs, 543 business incubators and 233 Science Parks for the period 2004-2012, the results show that university patenting activity does not seem to promote the innovation capacity of a region. Similar consideration for university business incubators and Science Parks. However, a more effective role is provided by USOs. Indeed, the scale of the spin-out process is pivotal in the exchanging of innovative output/input from academia to industry. Local governments should act as facilitators in the interchange of knowledge/technology, by planning policy and network towards a more innovative ecosystem.

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