Translated with DeepL
Technology transfer between universities of applied sciences and industry in Switzerland is described as a success story by many stakeholders. Universities of applied sciences are actively involved in research and development projects with companies. Personal contacts, the practical experience of the researchers and the support of management on both sides are crucial for success. Partnerships based on trust, clear structures and long-term co-operation are particularly successful.
Company labs, in which universities of applied sciences and companies work together over several years, are an important success factor. This form of co-operation enables practical research, strengthens innovative power and provides students with valuable insights into industrial processes.
In addition, the results of a survey conducted by the SATW Industry Advisory Board among eight universities of applied sciences, Innosuisse, Empa and the University of Fribourg show that smaller joint projects often serve as a springboard for larger innovation initiatives. Close collaboration at management level also increases the likelihood that research results will be translated into successful products.
Despite many positive examples, challenges remain. Insufficient basic funding for research at universities of applied sciences makes it difficult to develop long-term expertise. In addition, new processes often do not yet reach the necessary technological maturity to be quickly transferred into marketable solutions. Gaps in communication between science and industry can also hinder the success of projects.
Against this background, Innosuisse has a central role to play. It strengthens small and medium-sized innovation projects in particular and thus creates important bridges between research and application. This funding is of great importance for Switzerland's innovation landscape and should be secured for the long term.
Effective technology transfer requires stable financing structures, strategic partnerships at management level and mutual understanding between research and industry. Innovation, competitiveness and technological excellence in Switzerland can only be sustainably strengthened through close co-operation.
The new SATW publication shows how knowledge transfer between universities of applied sciences and industry works and where there is still potential. The following Q&A addresses key questions that representatives from research and industry ask about technology transfer.
The exchange of knowledge, methods and technologies between research and industry strengthens Switzerland's innovative power. Universities of applied sciences contribute practical research and applied expertise to industrial development processes. Companies, in turn, provide real-life issues and market expertise. Together, solutions are created that ensure technological progress and the competitiveness of Switzerland as a business location.
Technology transfer between universities of applied sciences and industry works well to very well overall. According to a survey conducted by SATW, all universities of applied sciences surveyed actively carry out joint research and development projects with companies. Particularly successful collaborations are characterised by personal contacts, industry knowledge of the researchers and committed support from the management level.
Company labs are rated particularly favourably. Here, universities of applied sciences and companies work together on a long-term basis in joint research laboratories. This promotes the continuous exchange of knowledge, strengthens practical research and offers students the opportunity to gain an early insight into industrial processes. This collaboration creates sustainable partnerships and often leads to market-ready innovations.
Innosuisse is a key player. The agency supports small and medium-sized innovation projects in particular, which are crucial for many universities of applied sciences and SMEs. Innosuisse funding often covers around half of the research budgets at universities of applied sciences. This support makes a significant contribution to the transfer of new technologies into practical applications.
Many universities of applied sciences struggle with insufficient basic funding for research. Without sufficient funds, it is difficult to build up long-term expertise or prepare new projects. In addition, innovative processes often do not yet have the necessary technological maturity to be quickly converted into marketable products. Administrative hurdles and communication deficits between researchers and companies can also slow down the process.
Companies must invest time and resources in order to successfully implement joint projects. The commitment of the management, especially at C-level, is crucial. Without a clear definition of objectives, regular dialogue and trust in the scientific approach, projects can lose momentum. In addition, the selection of a suitable partner university depends heavily on individual expertise and personal contacts.
Industrial companies should seek contact with universities of applied sciences at an early stage, formulate clear expectations and communicate their development goals transparently. Successful collaborations arise where companies actively involve their partners in innovation processes and combine the expertise of both sides in a targeted manner. Long-term partnerships, such as those cultivated in company labs, significantly increase the chances of success.
The SATW recommends three key areas of action for technology transfer between universities of applied sciences and industry:
Only through close and equal co-operation can Switzerland secure its innovative strength in the long term.
SATW promotes dialogue and collaboration between universities, research institutions and industry through various platforms and programmes. These include the thematic platforms, the SATW Advanced Manufacturing Research Network and formats such as TecDays and the Technology Outlook. Through these activities, SATW connects experts from science and industry and contributes to the targeted further development of technological expertise.
