Models of Transformation of Higher Education Institutions into Entrepreneurial Universities: Typology, Algorithm, and Strategic Management
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62911/ete.2025.03.01.06Keywords:
university transformation, entrepreneurial university, strategic management, university typology, entrepreneurship ecosystemAbstract
Abstract: The transformation of higher education institutions into entrepreneurial universities is becoming an urgent priority in the context of global competition, technological shifts, and the demand for closer integration between education, science, and the economy. This article presents a comprehensive approach to understanding and guiding such transformation, emphasizing the strategic, methodological, and organizational frameworks necessary for its implementation. The study focuses on the development of a typology of higher education institutions (HEIs) based on their level of entrepreneurial development: traditional universities, nonprofit entrepreneurial universities, and fully entrepreneurial universities. The research uses content analysis, SWOT-analysis, classification, and scenario modeling to formulate a transformation algorithm adapted to each university type. A four-phase transformation model is proposed: environmental diagnostics, strategic planning, implementation, and performance monitoring. The paper outlines specific developmental trajectories for each type of university, including resource allocation, curriculum changes, creation of innovation ecosystems, and internationalization strategies. Results demonstrate that the institutional context, readiness for innovation, and stakeholder engagement significantly influence the pace and success of transformation. The proposed model allows HEIs to transition from a classical academic structure to an entrepreneurial format, strengthening their social and economic impact. The study concludes that a systematic, typology-based approach supported by adaptive governance and strategic partnerships is essential for effective transformation. Furthermore, the framework provides practical guidance for customizing institutional strategies and aligning them with national innovation agendas. Future research may further explore how digitalization and international collaboration accelerate entrepreneurial capacity in higher education.
References
Clark, B. R. (1998). Creating Entrepreneurial Universities: Organizational Pathways of Transformation. Pergamon‑Elsevier Science. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003771309048
Etzkowitz, H. (2003). Research groups as “quasi‑firms”: The invention of the entrepreneurial university. Research Policy, 32(1), 109–121. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0048‑7333(02)00009‑8
Struminsky, V. (2021). Transformation of Ukrainian universities in the context of innovative development. Higher Education of Ukraine, 2, 15–22. https://doi.org/10.53486/icspm2023.45
Fedun, A., & Melnyk, V. (2020). Entrepreneurial university: Concepts, strategies, models. Innovative Economy, 1(83), 45–52. https://doi.org/10.20535/2077‑7264.3(65).2020.11089
OECD. (2017). The Entrepreneurial University Framework. OECD Publishing.
Raposo, M., & Paço, A. (2011). Entrepreneurship education: Relationship between education and entrepreneurial activity. Psicothema, 23(3), 453–457. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2010.09.006
Ukrainian Institute for Education Development (UIED). (2022). Methodological recommendations for the implementation of entrepreneurial education in higher education institutions. Kyiv: UIED. https://doi.org/10.20473/mkp.V33I12022.110‑121
Landinez, L., Kliewe, T., & Garomssa, H. (2019). Entrepreneurial University Indicators in Global University Rankings. In Developing Engaged and Entrepreneurial Universities: Theories, Concepts and Empirical Findings (pp. 57–85). Springer. DOI: 10.1007/978‑981‑13‑8130‑0_4
Bercovitz, J., & Feldman, M. (2006). Academic entrepreneurs and technology transfer: A conceptual framework for understanding knowledge-based economic development. The Journal of Technology Transfer, 31(1), 175–188. DOI: 10.1007/s10961‑005‑5029‑z
Fernández, A., et al. (2023). Digital transformation initiatives in higher education institutions: A comprehensive review. Education and Information Technologies. DOI: 10.1007/s10639‑022‑10739‑1
Wang, S. Y., et al. (2021). The evaluation of synergy between university–industry–government interactions: An indicator-based approach. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18, Article 3878378. DOI: 10.1155/2021/3878378
Bygstad, B., et al. (2022). Exploring the digital transformation of higher education: Emerging digital learning spaces. Computers & Education, 179, Article 104423. DOI: 10.1016/j.compedu.2022.104423
