This page has been temporarily translated using AI. A revised translation by the University Language Centre (CLA) will be uploaded soon.

In Italy, the term 'spin off' refers to a new organisation that arises from the previous one with the aim of applying previously accumulated knowledge, in order to orient it towards a specific productive use that is not among the institutional aims of the parent organisation.

Spin-offs are a useful tool to create opportunities for innovation through a new entrepreneurial initiative in line with the university's policies on the promotion of research in science and technology.

In a university context, spin-offs are characterised by:

• involvement of at least one member of university staff as author of knowledge susceptible to industrial development
• corporate purpose consisting of a precise project of technology transfer and development of certain results of industrial research activities 
• involvement of third parties as financiers and/or industrial partners.

Spin-offs at the University of Trieste can be divided into two main types:

• university spin-offs (if they provide for the participation of the University itself in the share capital)
• academic spin-offs (if they do not include the University among the partners).

One or more persons belonging to the teaching and research staff or one or more members of the technical-administrative staff (if patent holders or know-how depositaries) may propose the establishment of a spin-off.

The proposal to set up a university spin-off must be approved in advance by the department to which the proposing party belongs for aspects related to the possible request for initial hosting of the location, the absence of conflict of interest with the institutional activities carried out at the department itself and the charges deriving from the obligations of co-participation.

The proposal shall then be sent to the Rector, who shall submit it to the appropriate Spin-off Commission, composed of experts in economic-managerial, financial and legal matters.

Final approval is the responsibility of the Academic Senate and the Board of Directors.