The role of multi-stakeholder collaborations in integrating university missions : experience of six universities in Europe

Abstract

Universities are being required to expand their portfolio beyond traditional research and teaching missions, especially to increase their links with industry and adopt more entrepreneurial roles at the service of society. This study investigates how universities engage with diverse stakeholder groups to support their expanding missions. Drawing on survey data from organisational units within six European universities, the study explores how collaboration with stakeholders facilitates knowledge transfer through multiple channels and modes. The findings suggest that organisational units with established research competencies, particularly those exploiting European and regional funding, are better positioned to adopt ambidextrous strategies and align academic excellence with the entrepreneurial role and engage in innovation and commercialisation activities. However, institutional barriers, such as the weak integration of community engagement into core mission activities, may limit universities’ ability to broaden their role within regional innovation systems. The study highlights the importance of decentralised governance structures in navigating these constraints and leveraging collaborative opportunities, offering practical implications for university managers and decision-makers.