The ICT Cluster of Waterloo, Canada

This chapter illustrates the approach and initiatives of the entrepreneurial university in Waterloo in building the region’s information and communications technology (ICT) cluster. The creation of spin-offs seems to be encouraged by a series of policies implemented in the university, among students and academia. This case study is also a good example of collaboration between university and industry to meet the demands of the cluster labour market concerning skills. The adaptation of the university to the needs of industry, and the tight co-operation between industry and university in training and developing specific skills in students, have had a positive impact on the development of the cluster. This chapter also shows how flexible intellectual property regulations at the university play an important role in stimulating innovation, collaboration and business creation.