CATEGORIES OF INCUBATOR SUCCESS: A CASE STUDY OF THREE NEW YORK INCUBATOR PROGRAMMES

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate and identify three categories of incubators in the United States (US) located in New York(NY). The incubator categories are: (1) technology commercialisation; (2) economic development; and (3)entrepreneurship.

Methodology The study uses a qualitative approach based on interviews concerning three incubator programmes selected for their successful outcomes.

Findings The research findings suggest four priorities for incubators: 1) to be dynamic models of selfsustainable, efficient business development; 2) to provide helpful tools for generating jobs; 3) to foster and support enterprise and innovation to create the best environment for the start-up and smart growth of businesses; and 4) to support valueadded businesses through various means, such as developing the region’s science parks and R&D centres, improving collaboration between universities, and supporting business investment and growth.

Originality/value The research adds value to academicians and practitioners such as government, funded organisations, institutions and policy-makers.

Keywords Incubators, Economic development, Technology commercialisation, Entrepreneurship.

Paper type Research paper