Technology transfer and university engagement in the adoption of open innovation practices in firms

Abstract

This article presents a review and bibliographic systematization on the current relationship between university-based technology transfer and open innovation, focusing on university–industry linkage processes as key articulating mechanisms. Using the PRISMA methodology, 10 studies published between 2020 and 2024 in indexed databases such as Scopus and SciELO were selected and analyzed. The findings reveal significant consensus on the need to strengthen the institutional capacities of higher education institutions, promote flexible regulatory frameworks, and consolidate a collaborative culture between universities and the business sector. The study also identifies structural barriers, such as low investment in R&D, weak inter-institutional coordination, and limited technological absorption capacity in SMEs. It concludes that the implementation of open innovation practices requires shared governance models, milestone evaluation indicators, and context-sensitive territorial strategies. This study contributes to the ongoing debate on the strategic role of higher education institutions in regional innovation ecosystems and aligns its findings with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 9, and 17.