The Strengthening University-Enterprise Linkages in Palestine Conference brings together the sharing of knowledge and insights, the learning of new concepts, the development of new and existing contacts and the importance of having a great time. Who join us will gain a deeper understanding of how to generate optimal value from University-Enterprise Linkages and drive innovation within organization and beyond.
The various platforms for communication, knowledge exchange and proactive discussion are integrated into the conference in order to generate the most value for the participants. The conference will feature prominent keynote speakers, scientific professionals, and practitioners alongside good practice case study presentations, posters, and informative keynote presentations.

Bringing together stakeholders working on research, innovation and industry in Palestine and in the region to develop a shared vision on collaboration.

Developing “a common area of dialogue” and strengthening the relationship between universities/research institutions and enterprises in general and on an individual basis between researchers and professionals in industry/business.

Highlighting and supporting the existing mechanisms to achieve cooperation between the university and enterprise such as technology transfer and commercialization offices, technology incubators, and entrepreneurial support centers and others.

Sharing different experiences, successes and failures (locally, regionally and globally) in this area.

Discussing the policies, laws and regulations governing university-enterprise relationship and potential modifications.

Engaging the media in highlighting the importance of research and innovation in economic and social development and the value of strengthening university-enterprise linkages.

Sub-themes include, but are not limited to:

Innovation in practice: Creating an innovation engine
•    Universities & business: Building an innovation driven economy
•    Tools & methods for creativity & innovation
•    Business model innovation
•    The role of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs in promoting and sustaining innovation
•    Measuring the impact and level of innovation

Holistic view on innovation & entrepreneurship
•    Regional and national innovation systems
•    Policy and legislation: Challenges in creating an innovative and entrepreneurial society
•    Governmental and private funding and support

Entrepreneurship education
•    Teaching the entrepreneurs of the future
•    The role of business and education in creating the entrepreneurs of the future
•    Training, coaching and start-up support
•    Stimulating entrepreneurial mindsets, attitudes and creativity
•    (Joint) Curriculum development for innovation and entrepreneurship

Start-ups and spin-offs / student & academic entrepreneurship
•    Creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem
•    Incubators, technology and science parks and their role in the entrepreneurship ecosystem
•    Challenges for start-ups and spin-offs in Europe (e.g. funding)
•    Start-up leadership: Critical skills & competencies

Entrepreneurial universities
•    Business models of entrepreneurial universities
•    Creating an entrepreneurial universities ecosystem
•    University management and leadership: building blocks & initiatives
•    Employability of students and academic staff

Business and their role in university-enterprise linkages
•    How to get the best talent out of universities
•    Managing projects and relationships with universities
•    Creating entrepreneurs – skills and competencies to create future business growth

University-Business Cooperation
•    Supporting mechanisms (strategies, structures and approaches) towards university-business cooperation
•    Knowledge alliances, networks and partnerships
•    Incentives for university-business cooperation
•    Measuring the impact of interactions and partnerships

Knowledge and technology transfer
•    Approaches towards technology commercialization
•    Patenting & licensing – bringing knowledge to the market
•    Knowledge transfer offices and their management