Interactions between public research organisations and industry in Argentina

There are various channels for the exchange of knowledge between public research organisations (PROs) and industry (I). This paper discusses the relative effectiveness of different channels in Argentina. We use micro-data from surveys on firms and researchers to confirm that specific channels of PRO-I interactions are predominantly associated with specific types of benefits. While the service channel is effective for driving the benefits for researchers, the traditional channel does so for firms. However, we find that only the bi-directional channel ensures long-term benefits simultaneously for both actors. Moreover, we show that firms’ innovative capabilities and researchers’ knowledge skills interfere in the channels–benefits relationship. Therefore, the promotion of PRO-I interactions should be designed in accordance with the types of benefits being targeted and should take account of the knowledge characteristics of the actors involved in the interaction