Bridging research and innovation: Strategic approaches for advancing university research into market-ready solutions

In contemporary knowledge-driven economies, universities have evolved from traditional teaching and research institutions into central actors within innovation ecosystems. Their growing mandate to convert academic research into marketable products and services positions research commercialization as a strategic priority. However, many universities, particularly in developing regions, continue to face persistent barriers such as fragmented institutional systems, inadequate commercialization infrastructure, and limited collaboration with industry. This paper employs a thematic synthesis of literature across innovation management, entrepreneurship, and higher education policy to examine strategic approaches that strengthen university research commercialization. It explores mechanisms such as early-stage funding, industry co-creation models, academic spin-offs, and effective intellectual property (IP) governance. The analysis also emphasizes the enabling roles of technology transfer offices (TTOs), incubators, accelerators, and research parks in building institutional capacity for innovation. Adopting an ecosystem perspective, the study conceptualizes research translation as a dynamic, multi-actor process involving universities, industry, and government. The paper proposes a conceptual framework that integrates key strategic levers for advancing research-to-market transitions. It further offers policy and managerial recommendations aimed at enhancing commercialization readiness and fostering innovation-led growth within resource-constrained contexts. By highlighting the interconnected roles of institutional strategy, governance, and ecosystem collaboration, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on strengthening university–industry linkages and positioning higher education institutions as drivers of sustainable economic development.