Promoting sustainable innovations in technical universities: Critical success factors of the triple helix model

Purpose: This study aims to examine the critical success factors (CSFs) of the Triple Helix Model (THM) that promote sustainable innovations in Technical Universities (TUs). Design/methodology/approach: The mixed method approach was employed, using 233 TU convocation members and 14 interviews. Thematic analysis, exploratory, confirmatory and score plot loadings were run to measure the CSFs of the THM. Findings: Qualitative and confirmatory analyses aligned on five CSFs, including vision and policies, technology, evaluation, leadership, and innovation. EFA identified eight CSF measures consistent with factor and score loading plots. Research limitations/implications: The study sampled three TUs. The CSFs will contribute additional knowledge to the framework. Practical Implications: Implementing the CSFs by the TUs, industry and government will enhance sustainable innovation. Social Implications: Tertiary education policymakers could adopt this model for innovation. Originality/value: The three CSFs contributed to the robustness of the THM.