Ralitsa Zayakova-Krushkova,
Alexander Mitov
Technical University – Sofia
https://doi.org/10.53656/str2025-1s-2-inv
Abstract. Universities play an indispensable role in the global innovation ecosystem, not only as centers for generating and disseminating knowledge but also as key actors addressing societal challenges through sustainable and transformative innovation. The transition from academic research to market-ready solutions is facilitated by Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), which serve as intermediaries between academia and industry. This paper examines the dual role of TTOs in the European Union (EU) and Bulgaria, focusing on their approaches, methodologies, challenges, and opportunities. It introduces the concept of “synergetic individuality,” emphasizing how universities can leverage their unique strengths to foster innovation while adapting to market demands. Based on the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) innovation strategy as one of the best-practice examples, the European Patent Office’s (EPO) 2024 study, the National Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialization 2021 – 2027, and the patent search results of a Bulgarian university patent activity, this article provides a comparative analysis of Bulgaria’s performance in knowledge transfer. Special emphasis is placed on the potential for collaboration between technical and economic universities to overcome systemic gaps in commercialization. Recommendations are provided to enhance the effectiveness of Bulgarian TTOs and align their practices with European standards.
Keywords: Technology Transfer Office, synergetic individuality, university-business collaboration, intellectual property, innovation ecosystems, Bulgaria, AI, methodology for TTOs work
