The influence of networks on the knowledge conversion capability of academic spin-offs

Based on arguments from network research, academic entrepreneurship literature, and knowledge-based theory, this article applies a contingency approach to analyze, in the context of academic spin-offs (ASOs), the relationship between the size and the frequency of contacts of the industry network and the three components of the knowledge conversion capability (KCC): conceptualization and visioning, configuration and design, and embodiment and integration. Specifically, we suggest that the appropriate industry network configuration depends on two contingency factors: the knowledge task underlying the different components of KCC—search and transfer—and the tacit vs. codified character of the knowledge base of the ASO. From the analysis of 167 Spanish ASOs, our results indicate that the relationship between industry network size and frequency of contacts and KCC is affected by the two contingency factors being considered in this study.