In Italy, the term 'spin-off' refers to a new organisation that has branched off from an existing organisation. Spin-offs aim to use existing knowledge that has not been fully exploited for a specific outcome that is different from the institutional aims of the parent organisation.

Spin-offs are a useful tool for generating 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:

• the involvement of at least one university staff member who will develop their idea for an industrial application
• a clear business aim, consisting of a specific project for the transfer of technologies and for the development of results of industrial research activities
• the involvement of third parties, as financing and/or industrial partners

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

• university spin-offs (if they envisage the University’s participation in the share capital)
• academic spin-offs (if they do not include the University as a partner).

Members of teaching and research staff or technical and administrative staff (if they are patent holders or have relevant know-how) may propose the establishment of spin-offs at the University of Trieste.

The proposal for a university spin-off must be approved in advance by the department of the proposers. This approval should consider any initial request to be hosted within the department, a declaration of absence of conflict of interests with the institutional activities carried out at the department itself, and a declaration of any burdens deriving from the sharing of obligations.

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

Final approval is given by the Academic Senate and the Board of Directors.