Vol. 1 No. 01 (2025)
Articles

University-industry cooperation in Latin America a perspective from the obstacles.

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  • Antonio Hidalgo,
  • Alberto Urueña
Antonio Hidalgo
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (Spain). ETSI Industriales.
Bio
Alberto Urueña
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (Spain). ETSI Industriales.
Bio
University-industry cooperation in Latin America a perspective from the obstacles

Published 2025-09-11

Keywords

  • Innovation,
  • technology transfer,
  • university–industry cooperation,
  • Latin American countries
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Hidalgo, A., & Urueña, A. (2025). University-industry cooperation in Latin America a perspective from the obstacles. JOINETECH, 1(01), 66-75. https://doi.org/10.65479/joinetech.18

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Abstract

This study explores the dynamics of science–industry collaboration in emerging economies, with a particular focus on university–industry partnerships in Latin America. The research aims to understand how the defining characteristics of these partnerships influence their effectiveness and what barriers must be overcome to enhance cooperation. The methodology combines secondary data analysis with primary data collection through expert consultations, including a Virtual Forum and collaborative meetings across several Latin American countries. A gap matrix was developed to identify missing data, which was then supplemented by expert input from academia, industry, and government sectors in both the EU and Latin America. Key findings reveal that fragmented innovation policies, lack of a dynamic technological environment, and limited understanding of universities’ third mission significantly hinder collaboration. Cultural and institutional mismatches, differing timelines, and concerns over academic autonomy further exacerbate these challenges. The study emphasizes the need for a more cohesive legal and institutional framework, improved research and development (R&D) management, and the adoption of best practices from entrepreneurial universities. To foster effective university–industry collaboration, the study recommends targeted policy reforms, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and a strategic focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
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