Agência de inovação: um estudo de caso na INOVA UFPB sob a ótica da tripla hélice

Abstract

Innovation has been one of the main drivers of economic and social development, and the Triple Helix model—which involves the interaction between universities, government, and the private sector—has proven to be fundamental in this process. This study analyzes the performance of the innovation agency of the Federal University of Paraíba (INOVA/UFPB) in light of the Triple Helix model. Furthermore, it aims to characterize the cooperation processes between INOVA and UFPB, INOVA and companies, and INOVA and the State; to identify the driving and limiting factors that influence INOVA’s cooperation with universities, companies, and the State; and to suggest improvements for INOVA. The research, based on a qualitative approach, was conducted through semi-structured interviews with INOVA managers, professors/researchers, and startup entrepreneurs. The results indicate that, although there is collaboration between the university and companies, there are limitations such as a lack of financial resources, cultural resistance to inter-institutional cooperation, and inadequate infrastructure. Additionally, the research highlights the need to strengthen intellectual property training and to create a more efficient technology transfer process. Suggestions include improving interaction between sectors, investing in human resources, and optimizing innovation processes. The study contributes to the understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by INOVA-UFPB, proposing paths to strengthen its innovation dynamics.