TECHNOLOGY ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A SOURCE OF MODERN INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

Purpose:The purpose of the present article is to identify and assess the impact of technology entrepreneurship on the creation of product innovation of an improving nature, using the example of the products of a selected enterprise.The example used will be the process of improving a PGN-plus 80 universal gripper.This is an interesting case of improved innovative product in tradition sector of industry which causes many processes more effective and efficient.Design/methodology/approach: In this article the qualitative method, based on case studies procedure was used.Moreover, the aforementioned challenges of the modern world caused significant realignments in the functioning of enterprises.This applies especially to academic enterprises operating in the advanced technology sector.The effects of these challenges will be shown on the example of enterprises X, Y, and Z from the photonics industry.Findings: This relatively simple example from this article shows that even unspectacular product or process innovations play a significant role in building potential or actual competitive advantages.At the same time, it can point out the right path that companies should follow.Research limitations/implications: The article also discusses the issue of the impact of unforeseen events of the past several years (the COVID-19 pandemic and armed conflict in Ukraine) on shaping workers' entrepreneurial attitudes and the potential to generate innovative solutions, not just of a breakthrough character but also incremental innovations leading to the improvement of existing products or processes in the spirit of the philosophy of continuous improvement.Practical implications: In order to maintain their competitive position in the global market, enterprises must effectively and efficiently manage technological change.The ability to perceive the right time to change is a fundamental problem in managing technological innovation.Social implications: The events of the last few years have allowed for the creation of new entrepreneurial attitudes among employees of the studied high-tech companies representing the photonics industry.Originality/value: Understanding the seriousness of the situation, as well as perceiving it not only in terms of threats but also technological opportunities, resulted in a greater level of consolidation of the staff and brought a deeper understanding of the mission and shared values.