Socioeconomic Networks: In Search of Better Support for University Spin-offs

In this paper, we explore factors that may determine the performance of university spin-off companies. In particular, we focus on socioeconomic networks and support received from incubator organizations. Using spin-offs from the Technical University of Delft, the Netherlands as a case study, we explore whether spin-offs’ performance is influenced by the characteristics of their networks, i.e. tightness, strength of relationships, heterogeneity in partners’ background and spatial proximity. With regard to support from incubator organizations, we distinguish between conventional and added value support and explore whether spin-offs perform better if they receive both types of support compared with only conventional support. The results of the regression analysis confirm that loose networks and weak relationships are enhancing spin-offs’ growth. It was also confirmed that interaction with partners of diverse backgrounds enhances growth, while a positive influence of close geographical proximity with network partners was not confirmed. In addition, the results confirmed the idea that receiving a combination of conventional and added value support has a more positive influence on spin-offs’ growth than receiving only conventional support. Overall, network characteristics tend to influence growth much stronger than various support measures.