The Metamorphosis of Universities - Under the Sign of Entrepreneurship and Sustainability

Abstract

The universities serve as pillars of society, contributing mainly to education, research, innovation, cultural enrichment, and community development. The higher education institutions are more and more engage in entrepreneurial activities such as technology transfer, spin-offs, and industry collaboration. There is more and more discussions about expanding the functions of universities and even about the proliferation of entrepreneurial universities. Entrepreneurial universities not only focus on traditional roles such as education and research but also prioritize creating economic and social impact through entrepreneurship. In many universities,  dedicated offices or departments are set up and focused on supporting entrepreneurship, facilitating partnerships with companies, and commercializing research outputs.Entrepreneurial universities play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and driving regional economic development through their collaborations within the local ecosystem. The interactions with regional ecosystems are complex and put on the form: knowledge transfer, incubation and acceleration, collaborative research, workforce development, job creation, cultural and intellectual hub,  and community engagement. The involvement of universities in society and their evolution have been carefully studied, the Triple Helix model and Quadruple Helix model gaining consistency as the functions of higher education institutions expand.

The Triple Helix model is a concept developed by Henry Etzkowitz and Loet Leydesdorff. This model describes the relationship between academia, industry, and government in fostering economic development. The three helices represent these three sectors, and the interactions between them are believed to be crucial for driving innovation and knowledge creation.The Quadruple Helix model expands on the Triple Helix model, which describes the collaboration between academia, industry, and government in fostering innovation and developing economy. The Quadruple Helix adds a fourth dimension, usually represented by civil society or the public, emphasizing the importance of broader societal engagement in innovation processes. This model suggests that innovation are most effective when they involve active participation and collaboration among academia, industry, government, and the public. It highlights the role of citizens, communities, and non-governmental organizations in shaping innovation and sustaining development.

In summary, entrepreneurial universities play a multifaceted role in regional ecosystems, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and contributing to economic prosperity. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and networks, these institutions can catalyze positive change and help build thriving communities.