Spin-offs, Environmental KIBS and the Role of Universities for Sustainability

The chapter analyzes the role of Universities in supporting the development of a sustainability-oriented offering of spin-offs. In particular we focus on environmental KIBS (eKIBS) as peculiar spin-offs who could exploit their interaction with Universities to overcome the complexity of the circular economy framework. Based on five case studies of spin-offs originated in the University of Padova (Italy), the chapter suggests how universities support innovation in eKIBS, especially providing access to scientific frontiers and to physical, human and reputational resources. The importance of geographical and cognitive proximity is highlighted.