Intermediating associations and the university-industry relationship

Abstract

Using a mixed methods approach, this study examines the role of higher education professional associations in the academy-industry relationship. A quantitative analysis of the interorganizational field and a case-study of a single higher education association are used to test a new model of "intermediating organizations." Intermediating organizations are entities situated between the state, market, and higher education system. Intermediating organizations, usually non-profit in classification, are characterized by a high degree of corporate involvement and the ability and proclivity to span and challenge public/private boundaries. Three transactional processes are associated with intermediating organizations: the flow of actors, the flow of resources (knowledge, money, prestige), and the flow of commerce. The model contributes to the field of interorganizational networks, and is useful to other areas of organizational studies. Further, the study helps to re-define the university-industry relationship and to understand the formation of ties between higher education and corporations.