The Economic Impact of University–Industry Collaboration: The Case of Albania

Session

Management Business and Economics

Description

University–industry collaboration (UIC) is now considered a strategic driver for development and economic growth, knowledge transfer, and innovation capacity, particularly in developing economies. This paper examines the economic impact of UIC in the Albanian context, where structural challenges in higher education and low industrial competitiveness have historically limited the establishment of mutual partnerships. By analyzing national policies, university institutional frameworks, and firm-level data, the study highlights the opportunities and barriers that shape effective collaboration. Findings indicate that UIC in Albania remains underdeveloped, often characterized by informal relationships and a lack of financing mechanisms. However, promising initiatives in sectors such as information and communication technology (ICT), agriculture, and renewable energy suggest an increasing alignment between academic research and market needs. The paper concludes that strengthening institutional frameworks, aligning university curricula with labor market demands, and developing joint public–private funding schemes are essential to realizing the full economic potential of university–industry collaboration in Albania.

Keywords:

University–Industry Collaboration, Economic Development, Innovation, Albania, Knowledge Transfer, Higher Education

Proceedings Editor

Edmond Hajrizi

ISBN

978-9951-982-41-2

Location

UBT Lipjan, Kosovo

Start Date

25-10-2025 9:00 AM

End Date

26-10-2025 6:00 PM

DOI

10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.396

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Oct 25th, 9:00 AM Oct 26th, 6:00 PM

The Economic Impact of University–Industry Collaboration: The Case of Albania

UBT Lipjan, Kosovo

University–industry collaboration (UIC) is now considered a strategic driver for development and economic growth, knowledge transfer, and innovation capacity, particularly in developing economies. This paper examines the economic impact of UIC in the Albanian context, where structural challenges in higher education and low industrial competitiveness have historically limited the establishment of mutual partnerships. By analyzing national policies, university institutional frameworks, and firm-level data, the study highlights the opportunities and barriers that shape effective collaboration. Findings indicate that UIC in Albania remains underdeveloped, often characterized by informal relationships and a lack of financing mechanisms. However, promising initiatives in sectors such as information and communication technology (ICT), agriculture, and renewable energy suggest an increasing alignment between academic research and market needs. The paper concludes that strengthening institutional frameworks, aligning university curricula with labor market demands, and developing joint public–private funding schemes are essential to realizing the full economic potential of university–industry collaboration in Albania.