This presentation investigates the success factors of research-based spin-offs, with a particular focus on the differences between best and worst performers. Based on an empirical study of German spin-offs originating from public research institutions, key influencing factors such as team size, degree of innovation, market conditions, and the role of the parent organization are analyzed. The findings indicate that spin-off success is shaped by a combination of entrepreneurial, technological, and contextual factors, and varies depending on the applied performance measure (e.g., growth, financial performance, or technological output). The study provides nuanced insights into the mechanisms of successful knowledge and technology transfer and derives implications for both research institutions and founders.
Kendra Pöhlmann (Thu,) studied this question.