Academic spin-offs – a hybrid research culture as factor of success

The success of academic spin-offs is not only a question of the right business plan or the entrepreneurial competencies of the former scientists. In high-technology fields research and development (R&D) and the utilisation of knowledge are enduring processes. The development of an appropriate research culture is an essential part of the entrepreneurial work of founders and crucial for the long-term success of the company. In fact, the research culture and strategy are central, but often disregarded parts of the strategic market orientation of these companies. On an individual level, but also referring to the organisational structures and research processes themselves, conflicting demands are unavoidable. These contradictions have to be absorbed at an organisational level by establishing appropriate organisational structures and routines and additionally at an individual level by the founders and employees themselves. The results of this explorative study support the hypothesis of a hybrid research culture in academic spin-offs.