University spin-offs creation in the Latin American region

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to empirically explore the influence that different factors have on the creation of university spin-offs. Design/methodology/approach This is an exploratory study that uses a multilevel design. The study follows a purposive sampling method where data are gathered from a variety of sources. The hypotheses are tested with a sample of 52 universities from the Latin American region using multiple hierarchical regression analysis. Findings The results indicate that entrepreneurial orientation, incubators or entrepreneurship support programs and goods market efficiency are the factors that positively influence the creation of university spin-offs. Research limitations/implications The results of this study should be observed in light of some limitations. The sample size is an important factor, as a bigger sample could allow for examination of cross-institutional variation in the context of different countries. In addition, the lack of records or public databases makes it difficult to incorporate more information on spin-offs creation, including features or firm performance. Originality/value This study is the first to empirically explore the university spin-offs creation phenomenon in the Latin American region. Hence, it contributes to university entrepreneurship literature, specifically to better understand this phenomenon from a more holistic perspective across different levels of analysis at the same time that it incorporates previous proposals to explain entrepreneurial orientation at universities.