Technology Transfer Offices: Addressing Imperfections in Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: The Norwegian Context

Abstract

This research focuses on the creation and nurturing of University spin-offs and how the entrepreneurial ecosystem affects TTO s value creation process. We have conducted unstructured literature reviews on both TTOs and entrepreneurial ecosystems, ultimately resulting in a critique on Roberts and Malone s (1996) support-selectivity typology, where we argue that entrepreneurial ecosystems are complex and unique phenomenons, and that the handling of these important external factors cannot be easily generalized. Through the lense of Resource Based Theory and Resource Dependence Theory, we find that new ventures need to build a strong resource base to succeed, and USOs are especially dependent on resources, but because of liability of newness, it is difficult for them to get access to the resources they so desperately need. We further focus on the context of Norway and evaluate the different entrepreneurial ecosystems in Norway and look at how Norwegian TTOs can help USOs get access to important resources.