From Lab to Market: EURECA-PRO TTOs Share Expertise for Spin-Off Success
On May 7th, representatives from the Technology Transfer Offices of EURECA-PRO universities met virtually to share their blueprints for turning ideas into impact.
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The discussion, facilitated by Afroditi Fotiou from the Technical University of Crete (TUC), highlighted several best practices for successful technology transfer and innovation support across the EURECA-PRO alliance. The session opened with an overview of EURECA-PRO’s approach to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, as well as insights into the development of TUC’s young and dynamic Technology Transfer Office.
One key takeaway was the value of a strong and well-integrated support structure. Hasselt University presented its centralized Technology Transfer Office, where legal experts, spin-off specialists, and business developers work closely with researchers throughout the innovation process. Initiatives such as the “Valorisation Academy” and strong links to the regional innovation ecosystem demonstrate how dedicated support and entrepreneurship training can help researchers transform ideas into market-ready solutions.
Another important lesson focused on user-centred innovation. Through examples from Flanders Make, a strategic research centre in Belgium, participants explored the balance between technology-driven innovation (“tech push”) and market-driven demand (“market pull”). The discussion reinforced a widely recognised best practice in innovation management: successful technologies are developed in close collaboration with end users and validated as early as possible to ensure real-world relevance and impact.
Long-term collaboration emerged as a third success factor. The Technical University of Leoben showcased how sustainable relationships with industry partners can strengthen technology transfer activities over time. With 25 years of experience, the university has developed structured initiatives such as “TechFair,” which connects researchers with regional stakeholders, “Science Fit,” enabling visits to Styrian SMEs, and “COoperation INnovation,” supporting collaborative technology and know-how development.
These examples illustrate how smaller projects can serve as entry points for lasting partnerships that create value for both academia and industry.
Highlights and Recording
Across all presentations, a common message became clear: successful technology transfer is not only about processes, funding, or intellectual property. It is ultimately driven by people, trust, and collaboration. Whether through entrepreneurship support, user engagement, or long-term partnerships, the most impactful innovations emerge when strong networks connect research with societal and industrial needs.
