Conceptualization of a Cooperative Company Builder for Systematic Transfer of University Research and Innovation in the German Mittelstand

Universities lack a systematic transfer from research and innovation projects into practice. German Mittelstand firms have limited resources to pursue explorative innovation, which is required to realize business opportunities and remain competitive. Since current collaborations do not fully unlock innovation potential, this research aims to conceptualize a company builder to bring these two parties together in an entrepreneurial ecosystem. In line with this research’s exploratory nature, a multi-method analysis was followed, applying two approaches for data analysis. The company builder information was analyzed via a qualitative document analysis. Seven guided expert interviews were conducted with employees in innovation-related positions in German Mittelstand firms and the university. Findings suggest the company builder’s core activity is the venture creation process, ensuring systematic access to university-relevant research and innovation and facilitating valuable interactions among the ecosystem partners. The company builder’s value lies in connecting relevant ecosystem partners through a comprehensive company-building environment to exchange knowledge and expertise and meeting the partners’ needs equally regarding the new venture. Thereby, it is independent of bureaucratic university structures. Future research should validate current findings with higher sample size and focus on other relevant aspects, such as generating revenue and participation requirements for other potential ecosystem partners.