Creating a knowledge transfer environment: The case of Estonian biotechnology

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the science and technology (S&T) development framework within Estonia, a small transition country, and its biotechnology sector.

Design/methodology/approach

In the general overview the main concepts, actors and environment of S&T system in the triple helix context are analyzed. The empirical study explores the general research and development (R&D) environment of Estonia and particularly the biotechnology sector by mapping the actors, strategy of companies (all small and medium‐sized enterprises – SMEs), innovation processes and related expenditures of the public sector and private businesses.

Findings

The study results indicate the ratio of basic and applied research, and product/service development in the gross R&D funding structure in Estonia to be 3:3:4; in the biotechnology sector this ratio is 11:5:1. The structure of research expenditure in the public sector mostly reflects the success of Estonian biosciences rather than the success of biotech as a business sector.

Practical implications

Ways for improving the S&T system are suggested.

Originality/value

Mapping the actors, and measurement of the structure of the R&D expenses in the Estonian biotech sector and in SMEs in particular.

Citation

Mets, T. (2006), "Creating a knowledge transfer environment: The case of Estonian biotechnology", Management Research News, Vol. 29 No. 12, pp. 754-768. https://doi.org/10.1108/01409170610717790