A B S T R A C T

The purpose of the research - the study aims to examine the theoretical and practical roles of universities within entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs), with a particular focus on research and innovation centers (RICs) as pivotal mechanisms for converting academic knowledge into entrepreneurial outcomes.

The methodology of the research - the article employs a comparative and analytical approach, combining theoretical review with case study analysis. Established frameworks are critically examined, and empirical evidence is drawn from leading innovation hubs such as Stanford, MIT, and Cambridge, as well as universities in emerging economies, to illustrate how theoretical insights translate into practice.

The practical importance of the research - the findings provide actionable guidance for policymakers, university leaders, and industry stakeholders on designing and supporting RICs as strategic hubs which will strengthen universities’ contributions to entrepreneurial ecosystems and regional economic growth.

The originality and scientific novelty of the research - the study advances existing literature by positioning RICs not merely as supportive infrastructures but as central leverage points that integrate knowledge spillovers, human capital development, and trilateral colla­boration into a cohesive system. This perspective underscores the transformative role of universities as active engines of innovation-driven development rather than passive participants in entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Keywords: entrepreneurial ecosystem, universities, research and innovation centers, human capital, commercialization.

http://doi.org/10.59610/bbu4.2025.4.15