Partnering of High Technology Small Firms with Universities In Order to Commercialise ICT Research

High Technology Small Firms are knowledge wealthy and also knowledge hungry, their research being focused primarily on the commercialisation of technology. Universities knowledge covers a broad spectrum of research, from commercially focused research, normally associated with new Universities, through to ‘blue sky research, normally associated with the traditional Universities. This paper explores the opportunities that exist through research partnerships; Universities realise the commercialisation of research developing a commercial focus in research and teaching; whereas the small firm enhances their technology, to incorporate ideas and concepts from a less commercially driven source. ICT is fairly unique, as not only can it be applied to ICT applications, but can enhance other high technology arenas. Due to its broad range of applications and fast rate of change, special means are required to identify and incorporate its use. This paper addresses the issues related to the commercialisation of ICT research from Universities into high technology small firms.