Universities Potential Role in Local and Regional Development

Purpose:
The paper will describe experiences from Aalborg University in Denmark on ways to support cooperation between the University and regional civic/business.
Design/Methodology:
Regional development is exceedingly focused in the world; and as growth is dependent on specialised knowledge and highly skilled and competent staff, it could be anticipated that universities should play a key role in facilitating such growth and development. At Aalborg University, such cooperation is taking place, and this paper sums up the practices and experiences gained therefrom.
Findings:
Universities have been and maybe still are seen as bodies focusing on know-how; however, they are now focusing on technology transfer, knowledge transfer and knowledge exchange, and maybe also on co-designing. From such beginnings co-operation can, and in many cases has, further developed into formal partnerships and businesses. This correspondingly reflects the fact that some universities are moving towards more businesslike institutions. In short, a business approach to knowledge management has value.
Conclusions:
The paper gives an overview of the ways Aalborg University has participated and created ways to construct and implement networking activities between the university, the Region of North Denmark, its civic functions, industries and organisations.
Value:
The paper relies on the experiences from Aalborg University and the networks they have created and participated in. This may be of interest for others who may possibly be inspired to implement them in their own locality.