Knowledge transfer has long been a unique DNA of PolyU that brings together teaching, research and real-life application in carrying out its core mission. In 2015/16, PolyU registered HK$540 million of income as a result of its knowledge transfer activities, placing the University at the top of local institutions. In this issue, Dr Miranda Lou, Vice President (Administration and Business), discussed the University’s strategic approach and infrastructure in place to facilitate knowledge transfer and nurture entrepreneurs.
Why is knowledge transfer an integral part of the University’s mission?
We create knowledge by research, disseminate knowledge by teaching, and transfer knowledge by application. We strongly believe in the importance of fostering economic and social development by applying the results of our research to benefit the public. This philosophy of value-creation for the public good is realised through the proliferation of knowledge transfer across all faculties/schools and departments, with applications ranging from anti-cancer drugs, railway engineering systems, smart fabrics and food safety to eco-friendly construction materials.
What are the University’s strategies in promoting knowledge transfer?
PolyU undertakes a three-pronged strategic approach to knowledge transfer. First of all, we have a robust culture that recognises and rewards knowledge application. Faculty staff’s endeavours in knowledge transfer are recognised in their performance appraisal, alongside other key academic duties in teaching and research. In addition, the University has established mechanisms to share knowledge transfer and commercialisation proceeds with the staff concerned.
Secondly, PolyU has strong ties with the industry and business community. Our closely-knitted network with the industry makes it easier for faculty members to expand academic research with an industrial perspective, translating the University’s innovation and technologies into value-added products and services.
Thirdly, PolyU’s knowledge transfer management structure is built upon accountability and corporate governance. We have set up the Knowledge Transfer Committee and Entrepreneurial Programmes Management Committee, comprised of both University staff and independent industry representatives, to guide our knowledge transfer activities with transparency, consistency and accountability.
What is the driving force behind knowledge transfer?
Our primary concern is the impact of innovations brought to the society. As such, income derived from such activities is actually of lesser concern in our advancement of knowledge transfer. Our researchers strongly believe in the importance of addressing the needs of the community by transforming their research into values for social good. One example is the licensing of our anti-heat, anti-humidity clothing design to the Construction Industry Council for outdoor construction labour outfits to reduce heat discomfort and chance of heat strokes at a nominal fee of $1.
How does PolyU foster an entrepreneurial culture?
To cultivate entrepreneurship within the PolyU community and nurture socially responsible young entrepreneurs with the “Do Well Do Good” spirit, the University has set up various funding programmes to support startup ventures of students, graduates and alumni, providing them with much needed early-stage resources, networks and mentorship support.
The funding programmes, offered in partnership with Shanghai Technology Entrepreneurship Foundation for Graduates, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Fund, and angel investors, provide support to some 60 startups and social innovation projects each year, with total funding close to HK$10 million. This year, we have launched a new Student Entrepreneurial Proof-of-Concept Funding Scheme, complementing conventional classroom education for students with training and prototyping resources for any commercialisation endeavours they may contemplate down the road.
Does the University have any infrastructure in place to support startups?
We have established the PolyU InnoHub in March this year, with an aim to foster regional startup partnerships and strengthen the cohesion of the entrepreneurship community. Located at the Jockey Club Innovation Tower on campus, this co-creation and co-working space is now open to PolyU supported startups, partnering organisations and angel investors, enabling access to resources, mentorship and pre-incubation services much needed by the resident start-ups.