Title: Problems of commercialisation in Small Technology-based Firms

Authors: Jarkko Pellikka, Markku Virtanen

Addresses: Helsinki School of Economics, Small Business Center, Lonnrotinkatu 7, FIN-50100 Mikkeli, Finland. ' Helsinki School of Economics, Entrepreneurship and SME Management, Small Business Center, Mikkeli, Lonnrotinkatu 7, Finland

Abstract: Small Technology Firms (STFs) have an important role in revitalising economy since they contribute to employment and commercialisation of innovations. STFs face several challenges during their commercialisation process. The purpose of this study is to answer the following research questions: How the problems of the commercialisation process are described in former studies? What problems do STFs confront during commercialisation process? The problem areas of commercialisation are: infrastructure; marketing; financing; internationalisation. STF managers and venture capitalists should focus especially marketing and internationalisation. Policymakers and educators should ensure the availability of skilled resources for STFs.

Keywords: commercialisation; innovation; STF; small technology firms; technology-based firms; small firms; skills availability; infrastructure; marketing; financing; internationalisation; venture capital; entrepreneurship.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2009.025143

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2009 Vol.9 No.3, pp.267 - 284

Published online: 14 May 2009 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article