Program Design and Firm Success in the Advanced Technology Program: Project Structure and Innovation Outcomes

摘要

This study finds that the Advanced Technology Program (ATP) has a positive effect on innovation in firms. Participation in ATP projects increases firms' patenting, relative to patenting by the same firms prior to the ATP award. For firms analyzed in this study, covering ATP award years 1990-1995, patenting increased on average by between 5 and 30 patents each year during the period of ATP project participation. Furthermore, both joint venture project participation and university participation in a project appear to have a positive impact on firm patenting. Joint ventures or alliances between firms are expected to have a positive effect on innovation outcomes through the sharing of research capabilities and expertise, and through increased networking and learning. University collaborations are expected to have a positive impact on innovation due to sharing of knowledge and expertise.