Facilitating technology transfer processes in a cross-border region - a case study of SMEs in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship and the Land of Brandenburg

Abstract

The functioning of the contemporary world is increasingly determined by the state and development of technology, which is an inseparable element of every civilization and culture. It can already be stated today that a kind of technical civilization has emerged, with technology becoming the most significant component of societal transformative potential and a strategic asset of every organization. In light of that, not only the creation of new technology, but also the processes of its transfer currently hold paramount importance for the development of individual organizations, regions, or countries. It is believed that technology transfer should, among other things, significantly contribute to enhancing the level of innovativeness of enterprises, which, considering the structure of most EU economies, is particularly important for small and medium-sized entities. However, for this to occur, specific conditions and premises must be met, which will facilitate such processes. The increasing significance and scope of technology transfer processes conducted worldwide emphasize the necessity for their proper recognition to enable appropriate shaping by various public institutions. In this regard, one must consider the multifaceted nature and complexity of these phenomena, which pose specific challenges in research and imply the need for multidimensional analyses. Previous research efforts have primarily focused on national, regional, or sectoral technology transfer systems, with somewhat less emphasis on cross-border approaches. Therefore, the authors aimed to identify the fundamental conditions and assess the existing support system for technology transfer processes in SMEs operating within a cross-border region. Considering the differences in the economic potentials of Poland and Germany, it was decided to observe and analyze the aforementioned issue in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship and Brandenburg. In particular, the research sought answers to the following research questions: