University as an element of urban innovation ecosystems

Abstract

The article examines the role of universities in the innovation ecosystems of modern cities. The authors provide a theoretical rationale for the necessity of an ecosystem approach, in which universities act not only as centers of education and scientific research, but also as active participants in technology commercialization, knowledge transfer, and entrepreneurial initiatives. Particular attention is given to the digital transformation of universities as a key condition for their successful integration into the innovation process, which aligns with the objectives of the new national project “Data Economy.” The study includes a comparative analysis of domestic and foreign research universities, which made it possible to identify the key criteria of their readiness for such integration: the maturity of digital and innovation infrastructure, the effectiveness of technology transfer, and the depth of partnership networks. The practical significance of the research lies in the formulation of recommendations for the strategic development of universities as drivers of digital transformation and as core elements of the urban innovation environment.