Sustaining Innovation: How the Technology Support Office Bridges Research and Industry
The Technology Innovation and Support Office (TICO) plays a pivotal role in connecting scientific research with industrial applications. Ensuring the office’s sustainability is essential for maintaining its impact even after the initial funding period ends. To achieve this, TICO has developed a comprehensive strategy based on six key pillars:
1. Participation in Industrial Exhibitions
The office actively participates in local and international fairs to showcase researchers’ innovations, facilitating real industrial partnerships and transforming research outputs into tangible products.
2. Field Visits
Through a proactive “door-to-door” approach, TICO regularly visits factories and companies in the surrounding area to identify operational challenges and work with researchers to provide innovative solutions.
3. Digital Marketing
Research outputs are promoted via the office’s official website and linked with the Egyptian Innovation Bank database, as well as through social media platforms, increasing visibility and engagement with industry stakeholders.
4. Industry Open Days
TICO organizes sessions hosting industry representatives within the city, presenting research outputs and conducting discussions on practical applications that can enhance production processes and product development.
5. Conferences and Workshops
The office leads the organization of scientific and industrial events that bring together researchers and business leaders, creating opportunities for collaboration and turning research ideas into real-world applications.
6. Collaboration with Other TICO Offices
Sustainability is further strengthened through partnerships with nearby university and research center offices, such as the Egypt-Japan University, Alamein University, and others, expanding the office’s network and supporting research commercialization.
Through these six pillars, TICO ensures a robust model of sustainability, bridging the gap between research and industry, driving innovation, and contributing to knowledge-based economic development.