The aim of this paper is to assess the effect of university research on total factor productivity in Italy. The impact of universities on firms’ performance is highly complex, nevertheless we shall attempt to verify how geographical location, sector and firm size may influence this relationship. Results show that university R&D does not seem to affect firm productivity, yet if we consider geographical location and sector, we find that universities have a positive effect on the performance of firms located in the North of Italy and on firms operating in the specialised supplier sector. Several robustness checks confirm the significant role played by universities especially in the North of Italy. Finally, the policy implications of these findings are discussed.
Do firms benefit from university research? Evidence from Italy
CARDAMONE, Paola;PUPO, Valeria;RICOTTA, Fernanda
2016-01-01
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to assess the effect of university research on total factor productivity in Italy. The impact of universities on firms’ performance is highly complex, nevertheless we shall attempt to verify how geographical location, sector and firm size may influence this relationship. Results show that university R&D does not seem to affect firm productivity, yet if we consider geographical location and sector, we find that universities have a positive effect on the performance of firms located in the North of Italy and on firms operating in the specialised supplier sector. Several robustness checks confirm the significant role played by universities especially in the North of Italy. Finally, the policy implications of these findings are discussed.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.