Knowledge transfer between universities and enterprises

The IRE working group on knowledge transfer will allow for regions to meet and exchange knowledge and best practices on the theme of knowledge transfer with a particular focus on regional policies and practices and on the issues facing SMEs and universities trying to develop more effective knowledge transfer activities.

The working group aims to:

• create a continuous learning process amongst IRE member regions of how knowledge transfer activities can be stimulated, developed and promoted;
• increase efficiency and effectiveness of public support to knowledge transfer initiatives by improving the integration of both policy makers and knowledge transfer practitioners in the process;
• develop ideas for knowledge transfer policies and tools;
• create networks between regions to facilitate exchanges and perhaps joint policy/project implementation.

The group will produce a final report in the form of a Handbook that identifies key issues and barriers to effective knowledge transfer and more importantly offers solutions and good practice ideas for promoting knowledge transfer in the regions and with companies.