Digital Twin Technologies as Strategic Capabilities in Academic Spin-Offs: A Conceptual Framework

Digital Twin (DT) technologies are widely discussed in the context of Industry 4.0 and advanced manufacturing; however, their role in supporting the sustainability and survival of academic spin-offs remains underexplored. This paper argues that, particularly in peripheral and resource-constrained innovation ecosystems, Digital Twins should be understood not merely as optional technological enhancements but as strategic capabilities that support sustainable technology commercialization in early-stage, research-driven ventures. Building on literature on academic entrepreneurship, technology commercialization, digital innovation, and regional innovation systems, the study develops a conceptual framework that positions Digital Twins as entrepreneurial infrastructures linking scientific outputs to market readiness through three interrelated mechanisms: the reduction in technological uncertainty, the acceleration of market validation, and the enhancement of organizational learning and strategic adaptability. Extending beyond conceptual development, the paper proposes a staged Digital Twin adoption roadmap aligned with Technology Readiness Levels, offering a practical pathway for integrating DT capabilities across venture maturation phases while strengthening investor readiness and commercialization outcomes. The analysis further connects DT-enabled experimentation with sustainability objectives by demonstrating how virtual testing, digital validation, and data-driven learning support capital-efficient, resource-conscious, and resilient innovation processes. By integrating theoretical insights with operational guidance, this conceptual study contributes to research on technology transfer, deep-tech entrepreneurship, and sustainability-oriented innovation by proposing a framework that may guide future empirical investigations of Digital Twin adoption in academic spin-offs. The framework also offers actionable implications for spin-off founders, university technology transfer offices, and policymakers seeking to foster resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystems.