Barriers for technology transfer: the case of a country in transition

Purpose – The main purpose of his paper is to identify key barriers for technology transfer (TT) in a transitional economy. Poland is presented as a case study, with an emphasis on domestic TT. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on the author's empirical studies, using a few research methods, like: a postal questionnaire, the Delphi method, online questionnaire and a statistical data analysis. Findings – In the period under analysis, no significant improvement occurred in the field of TT processes in Poland. The poor state of TT is due to the presence of numerous obstacles/barriers. According to empirical research, the most disturbing barriers facing the enterprise sector are: R&D institutions not fully open or prepared to cooperate with firms; inefficient systems supporting corporate innovation and R&D activities; obstacles hindering firms in acquiring outside financial resources; a lack of own financial resources; and a lack of innovative culture and mentality among employees. The lack of relevant communication between the science sector and industry is at the core of all difficulties in TT processes. On the basis of this, recommendations are formulated for all main actors on the innovation scene. At least some of the recommendations can be relevant for other countries in transition like, e.g. China. Originality/value – This study is a comprehensive examination and analysis of TT processes in the country, with main stress put on existing barriers for the transfer of technologies and recommendations on how to remove the barriers.