Stickiness Unraveled: Company Survival on Dutch Science and Technology Parks

This paper explores the impact of science and technology park (STP) characteristics on the duration of stay of resident companies in Dutch STPs. The study focuses on heterogeneity among these companies and investigates the influence of STP type, size, and other factors on company survivability. The research findings indicate that the type of knowledge anchor on STPs, such as university-based versus corporate-based, affects the duration of stay of companies. University-based STPs tend to have longer company stays compared to corporate STPs. The study also identifies different clusters of companies based on size, age, and business activities. Younger and smaller companies have lower survivability rates, while more mature and larger companies tend to stay longer.

The research highlights the importance of understanding company heterogeneity and tailoring support programs and infrastructure to meet the needs of different types of companies on STPs. Future research should consider the real estate context and investigate the factors influencing company exits and the impact on the STP ecosystem. STPs should focus on creating a robust community that fosters collaboration and provides critical resources to reduce the need for companies to leave.