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From lab to market: A hybrid model for closing the knowledge gap in technology transfer

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  • Li, Xiaohua
  • Li, Jizhen

Abstract

Technology transfer is a critical driver of regional economic development. This paper investigates how teacher-student co-creation effectively bridges the knowledge gap between academia and industry. Drawing on ten academic spin-off teams from diverse sectors, we explore the mechanisms that overcome knowledge transfer barriers. Our findings demonstrate that teacher-student co-creation enhances knowledge transfer between academia and industry through the active involvement of teachers, students, and academic spin-offs. We identify three mechanisms underlying this process: intermediary bridging, hybrid spaces, and innovation ecosystems. This study proposes a team-level hybrid model to bridge the knowledge gap between academia and industry and extend knowledge transfer theory by exploring how teacher-student co-creation integrates knowledge creators with transmitter while offering a shared space to transfer tacit knowledge. These insights are valuable for emerging countries with weak institutions and provide practical implications for organizing novel forms of intermediaries.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Xiaohua & Li, Jizhen, 2026. "From lab to market: A hybrid model for closing the knowledge gap in technology transfer," Technovation, Elsevier, vol. 150(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:techno:v:150:y:2026:i:c:s016649722500269x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.technovation.2025.103437
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