Improving university-industry partnership the Brazilian experience through the scientific and technological development support program (PADCT III)

Abstract

Developing countries' scientific and technological development depends on the assistance of several government spheres, in particular from the federal one, in order to formulate policies and generate financial support mechanisms. Aiming to explore better the research results for the benefit of the productive sector, the Brazilian government has implemented programmes whose main focus is the promotion of the interaction between academia (universities and public research institutions) and companies. Among these initiatives, it is worth mentioning the Scientific and Technological Development Support Programme (PADCT), an initiative undertaken by the Brazilian government and the World Bank. The third version of this Programme (PADCT III) was set up during the period 1998-2002 and supported 142 projects through its Technological Development Component (CDT), contemplating four lines of action: Technological Platforms (PLAT), Sectoral and Regional Development (PCRS), Specific Collaborative Projects (CE) and Technological Support to Small and Medium Firms (AMPE). This paper aims at presenting this experience through the exploration of an ex-post evaluation related to a set of results demonstrating the feasibility of this S&T policy option or developing countries.