Proposal of a theoretical model for the implementation and scalability of science parks: a case study

The general aim was to propose a theoretical model for the implementation and scalability of science parks. For this purpose, an in-depth study was conducted at the Santos Science Park (SSP), as this is the only implementation and scalability program for science parks in the country whose central focus is on energy (oil and natural gas). The study was qualitative and exploratory in nature and the methodology used was the case study, with data collected from multiple sources. These sources included bibliographic research, document analysis, a workshop and meetings with members of the Board of Directors of the SSP. Information on other consolidated science parks in the country (Tecnopuc in Porto Alegre and Porto Digital in Recife), which was important to the structuring of the theoretical model for the implementation and scalability of the SSP, was obtained from semi-structured interviews with their managers. The results showed that the implementation of the SSP will require not only a legal format and an adequate real estate project, but will also involve the articulation of political, economic and social activities that precede the implementation of the venture. These activities will define the criteria for the concession and use of the park's infrastructure and services. They also include the mechanisms for economic and financial support and social rules that will affect the interface of the park with its resident and non-resident companies and society. The conclusions of the study led to the proposal of a theoretical model for the implementation and scalability of a science park through the development of dynamic, ambidextrous and relational capabilities that together result in a scalable innovation cycle.