Growing enterprises through a technology upgrading strategy (GET-Up) - An alternative mode of technology transfer

This paper outlines a scheme that uses public research institutes to assist the technology upgrading of small and medium enterprises. Instead of traditional technology transfer, this scheme utilizes skills and human resource transfer, supplemented by a practical technology road mapping program, provision of technical advisors when needed and also joint R&D in selected firms. We propose that GET-Up represents a new integrated approach to technology transfer which additionally maximizes the industrial impact of public sector research. Findings from surveys and selected case studies show that the scheme has had positive impact on the technological capabilities, innovation performance and growth aspirations of participating companies.