LAUSR

The objective of this study was to identify the reasons why Brazilian companies do not seek out universities to conduct joint research. To achieve this objective, descriptive quantitative research was undertaken, obtaining responses from representatives of companies of several sizes using a structured questionnaire. For the analysis, respondents were divided into two groups: those from companies that had not yet engaged in joint research and those from companies that have done so. For companies without previous experience of joint research, evidence of reasons that would influence the intention to take part in such research emerged. We highlight the mechanisms of intermediation between companies and universities, institutional policies for universities, and legal issues, which influence companies’ inclination to incorporate this type of partnership in their strategies. Such evidence also emerged in companies that had previously undertaken joint research. Furthermore, companies that had previously performed joint research highlighted issues regarding the complexity of contracts with universities and the excessive bureaucracy. Addressing these sets of barriers could be a starting point for fostering partnerships between companies and universities in Brazil.