The aim of the project was to conduct a systematic analysis of knowledge and technology transfer between business and academia in the state of Saxony in order to assess the performance of the transfer system, identify untapped exploitation potential, and derive necessary actions to improve transfer processes. To this end, the relevant actors in the transfer system were first identified on the basis of an impact model. Using available information and our own surveys conducted among companies, research institutions, and intermediaries, the transfer activities—including the channels used for exchange—were analyzed, and the transfer potential was determined. Another part of the project examined the contribution of Saxony’s technology funding to transfer activities.

The ZEW’s contribution to the project focused primarily on analyzing the transfer activities of companies in Saxony. For this purpose, a company survey was carried out, designed as an additional survey within the framework of the Mannheim Innovation Panel.