Program Design and Firm Success in the Advanced Technology Program: Project Structure and Innovation Outcomes

Published

December 1, 2002

Author(s)

Andrew J. Wang, Michael R. darby, Lynne G. Zucker

Abstract

This study finds that the Advanced Technology Program (ATP) has a positive effect on innovation in firms. Participation in ATP projects increases firms' patenting, relative to patenting by the same firms prior to the ATP award. For firms analyzed in this study, covering ATP award years 1990-1995, patenting increased on average by between 5 and 30 patents each year during the period of ATP project participation. Furthermore, both joint venture project participation and university participation in a project appear to have a positive impact on firm patenting. Joint ventures or other alliances between firms are expected to have positive effect on innovation outcomes through the sharing of research capabilities and expertise, and through increased networking and learning which adds to social capital for innovation. University collaborations are also expected to have positive effects on innovation through the sharing of knowledge and expertise. The findings of this study support the idea that joint ventures and university collaboration have a positive impact on innovation.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 6943

Report Number

6943

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Keywords

Advanced Technology Program (ATP), patents, program design, R&D projects

Citation

Wang, A. , darby, M. and Zucker, L. (2002), Program Design and Firm Success in the Advanced Technology Program: Project Structure and Innovation Outcomes, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD (Accessed October 22, 2025)