The relationship between university incubators, university-industry linkages, financial resources and commercialisation performance in Paksitani Universities

Abstract

Commercialisation performance has emerged as an important objective of universities apart from teaching and research to contribute to the economic development. The main purpose for universities to engage in commercialisation of research is to generate revenue and to rely less on public funding. However, many universities are facing challenges to achieve the targeted level of commercialisation and showing low commercialisation output. Current literature reveals that university incubators and university-industry linkages can influence commercialisation performance. Nevertheless, there are a very few empirical studies on the effectiveness of university incubators and university-industry linkages for commercialisation performance. The study investigated the relationships of university incubators and university-industry linkages with commercialisation performance and the moderating effects of financial resources. A questionnairesurvey based on quantitative research design was used to collect data through multistage sampling procedure from 347 respondents of 118 tenant firms at ten Pakistani universities. Structural equation modelling (SEM) technique using AMOS 22 software was employed to test the validity of measurement and structural model of the study. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used in testing the measurement model. The direct relationships between university incubators, university-industry linkages and commercialisation performance and interaction effects of financial resources were analysed in the structural model. The results of the study showed that university incubators and university-industry linkages have a positive relationship with commercialisation performance. Moreover, financial resources moderated the relationship between university incubators, university-industry linkages and commercialisation performance. Based on the findings of the study, it is suggested that university incubators and universityindustry linkages can be stimulated with the provision of financial resources to raise commercialisation output. In addition, this study would be helpful for universities, government and industries to make strategic decisions to stimulate commercialisation performance at the optimum level for the benefit of society.