Knowledge transfer interactions in regional innovation ecosystems: exploring the third mission of universities of applied sciences in the Dutch healthcare domain

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are increasingly recognised for their roles in regional innovation ecosystems (RIEs). In addition to traditional roles related to education and research, HEIs also advance a third mission to contribute to society. However, innovation models predominantly focus on academic universities, overlooking the practice-based and regionally embedded Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS). Moreover, there is limited understanding about the roles related to the third mission of UAS in the context of RIEs. This paper aims to identify the roles of UAS related to the third mission by analysing knowledge transfer interactions (KTI) with other actors in RIEs. The research utilises a qualitative case study approach. Primary data are gathered through semi-structured interviews and a focus group session with stakeholders in the healthcare sector across different rural and urbanised regions of a selected UAS. Findings demonstrate several derived roles related to the third mission of UAS in RIEs, including relational, connector, facilitator, and supportive roles, accompanying different types of KTI. Several factors, including firm size, regional context, and proximity dimensions, influence KTI. UAS can fulfil diverse roles to enhance KTI with targeted management strategies to strengthen their third mission in the region.