The Role of Transferors in Improving SMEs’ Technology Capability in Developing Countries

Abstract

Technology transfer has widely been considered as a means of improving technology capability. Organisations across the world have been involved in technology transfer programs. In developing countries, small to medium enterprises (SMEs) are regarded as a valuable source of economic growth. However, SMEs are also often thought to have insufficient resources to advance their in-house technology development. Therefore, SMEs require technology transfer programs to increase their technology capability. Numerous technology transfer programs have been applied through government agencies, universities and businesses to improve SMEs technology capability. This study provides empirical data to explain the role of transferors (government, universities, businesses) in the transfer of technology for SMEs. With more than 200 respondents, the results of this study illuminate the involvement of the SMEs in technology transfer programs and role of the transferors in transferring technology. Keywords—Knowledge and Technology Transfer, Technology Capability, Transferor, SMEs.