R&D spin-off models in Spain

Abstract

The recent years have seen increasing interest in the issues of technology transfer, as a result of which, in numerous countries, including Spain, research on models of R&D and industry cooperation has become widely promoted. The development of optimal models of technology transfer aims at the support of R&D commercialisation processes and enhances industrial implementation of innovative products and technologies. One of the common mechanisms of technology transfer and commercialisation of research results is the creation of spin-off companies. In this article, the author identifies the technology transfer mechanisms and structures supporting the spin off processes in the Spanish public R&D and the business sector alike. Different models of spin-off creation models are presented, and legal regulations and national initiatives supporting commercialisation of research results through the application of this particular mechanism are discussed.