Institutional and Systemic Determinants of University–Industry Collaboration for Start Up Growth in Uganda

Abstract

University–industry collaboration is widely recognized as a driver of innovation and entrepreneurship, yet Uganda’s ecosystem faces systemic weaknesses that limit commercialization and start up growth. This study employed a qualitative descriptive design using secondary data from policy documents, statistical abstracts, university reports, and scholarly literature. Thematic content analysis revealed fragmented policy frameworks, inadequate research funding (0.18% of GDP), limited human capital, and weak private sector engagement. Although innovation hubs and incubation centers have expanded, their effectiveness is constrained by poor resources, weak commercialization pathways, and low start up survival rates. Technology transfer offices exist in only a few universities and remain under resourced. The study concludes that Uganda’s innovation potential is hindered not by a lack of ideas but by systemic weaknesses that restrict the translation of research into socio economic value. Strengthening institutional capacity, policy coordination, and investment in research and innovation is essential for building a robust innovation ecosystem.