Connecting the Technopark to the
IncubatorAssociation of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Harold Strong, AURP Immediate Past PresidentDirector of Discovery Park and Technology
Transfer, University of North Texas
Harold Strong, AURP Immediate Past PresidentDirector of Discovery Park and Technology
Transfer, University of North Texas
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
What is a Research Park?• Master planned property and buildings
• A virtual community connected by shared interests
• A contractual science/research institute
• Industry partnerships
• Promotes economic development
http://www.aurp.net
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Simply StatedA physical place
• A knowledge-based environment
• A partnership
• A research-based economy – both basic and applied
• Physical and intellectual infrastructure that supports
innovation, commercialization and collaboration
An investment in the future
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
What do we do in Research Parks?
6.30%
10.10%
19%
21.50%
24.10%
34.20%
45.60%
Agriculture
Aerospace/Electronics
Software Development
Computers/Electronics
Mixed/Other Technologies
Information Technology
Medical Biotechnology
Dominant TechnologiesSome parks reported more than one technology
Source: AURP Industry Profile
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Unique Environments for the Intersection of University, Industry and Government
INDUSTRY GOVERNMENT
UNIVERSITY
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Mutual BenefitsFor the University:
• Research grants and sponsored research opportunities
• “Real World” problems
• Industry expertise
• State of the art facilities
• Opportunities for faculty consulting, recruiting & retention
• Internship and Career opportunities for students
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
For Industry / Government:
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment
• Sponsored research opportunities
• Faculty as consultants
• Students
• Commercialization expertise
• Libraries, facilities, cultural & sporting events
Mutual BenefitsMutual Benefits
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
• Public Private Partnerships with a Mission• Technology Transfer / Commercialization• Partners in Park Development
Aspects of Technopark
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
• Most parks ground lease their land• 3/4ths of the parks were established using public funds• 2/3rds of the parks use public incentives to attract tenants• 2/3rds have a business incubator
(source: AURP)
Most Parks are Set up to be Non-Profit Entities and:
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Technopark are: • property based ventures• promote community economic development• tend to be larger developments• house everything form corporate, government and university labs
• Incubators:• Do not offer comprehensive programs for business assistance
Difference Between an Incubator and Technopark
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Two principles characterize effective business incubation:• The incubator has a positive impact on its
community’s economic health by maximizing the success of emerging companies
• The incubator is a dynamic model of a sustainable, efficient business operation
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Incubation Programs strive to:1. Get consensus that defines the incubator’s
role in the community and develop a strategic plan to capture the objectives
2. Structure for financial sustainability by developing a business plan
3. Recruit and compensate capable management
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Incubation Programs strive to:4. Build an effective board committed to successful
companies
5. Place management emphasis on client assistance
6. Develop facility and resources that support incubator tenants
7. Integrate incubator program with park tenants and community support
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Incubation Programs strive to:
8. Develop stakeholder support that assists incubator tenants to achieve their goals
9. Maintain an information system that allows for the program to improve over time
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
The tech incubator‘s prime purpose is to facilitate the early stage entrepreneurial firm, university and laboratory to move its research work through pilot testing, seed financing and market entry.
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Best Practices for Incubator Tenants
1. Business Assistance Program Coaching and Facilitation Monitoring Progress
2. Professional Infrastructure Know-how network Mentors Advisory Boards
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Best Practices for Incubator Tenants
3. Client Capitalization and Financing
4. Client Networking
5. Technology Licensing and Commercialization
6. University and Federal Lab Linkages
Association of University Research Parks, 2012 ©
Best Practices for Incubator Tenants
7. Facilities/Amenities
8. Governance and Staffing
9. Client Screening and Graduation
10.Incubator Evaluation