Bridging the Gap between Institutions of Higher Education and Small and Medium-size Enterprises

Bridging the gap between knowledge institutions (especially universities) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is one of the challenges of present economic policy. Innovation is one important aspect of this policy. However, the characteristics of both universities and SMEs appear to be an obstacle in bridging the gap between these two groups. In particular, this paper aims to highlight the potential of universities of professional education (UPEs) for innovative strategies of SMEs. First, this paper reviews the pivotal role of innovation by SMEs. Next, it focuses on the function UPEs can assume in the innovation process by SMEs. The empirical part of the paper then presents findings from a regional case study in the Dutch region of Zwolle, in the eastern part of the country. Strategic and operational information from both lecturers and graduate-entrepreneurs of one UPE in the region concerned was collected in order to draw strategic policy lessons.