Ana Carrasco
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5 May 2009
As the worst economic crisis in decades continues to take its toll, one thing is now clear - its effects aren't confined to rich countries. The development and adoption of innovative technologies can help developing countries better cope with the effects of the crisis. How can developing countries best facilitate technology transfer from research institutions?
Recognizing the need for further study of technology transfer, IFC has financed a study on technology transfer and proposed some hypothetical interventions that may prove to effectively facilitate technology transfer from research institutions. The report raises a number of questions, including:
- Has the US model been successfully replicated elsewhere? Can it be? More importantly, should it be?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the US technology commercialization model in the US context? What are the implications for emerging markets?
- What other models exist and what are their strengths, weaknesses, adaptability and implementability?
- Who are the stakeholders in tech transfer generally? Which of these play an active role in commercialization? Which currently do not but should?
- What are the special technology transfer considerations by industry, e.g., human health, agriculture and food, information technology, and alternative energy?
- What approaches might improve technology flows between developed countries and emerging markets?
IFC and infoDev invite you to join this online discussion by commenting upon the IFC Technology Transfer Facility Study.
For further information about infoDev-IFC Technology Transfer collaboration activities, please see the Technology Transfer activity file.