The commercialization of scientific research and development (R&D) serves as the foundation of an innovative economy. It is a complex but crucial process that enables the transformation of scientific knowledge into technologies and products that improve people's lives and strengthen the national economy. However, as shown by a study conducted by JSC "Science Fund" with the financial support of the Scientific Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, significant challenges remain in this area.
Key barriers
According to Mahabbat Sadvokasova, an expert at JSC "Science Fund", the main challenge remains limited funding for scientific research. Kazakhstan allocates less than 0.2% of its GDP to research and development, while in developed countries this figure reaches 2-3%. The lack of financial resources affects all stages of the innovation process, from initial research to the commercialization of final products.
Furthermore, modern research infrastructure is not uniformly available throughout Kazakhstan. Many universities and research centers lack the necessary equipment, and existing laboratories do not always meet international standards.
Global experience: Lessons to Learn?
The study of successful practices shows that the key to effective commercialization of scientific research is a systematic approach. Notable examples include
United States: Universities actively collaborate with industry through technology hubs that facilitate the integration of scientific innovations into business applications.
Germany: The Fraunhofer Institutes serve as intermediaries between academia and industry, conducting applied research tailored to the needs of businesses.
South Korea: The government provides substantial research grants and actively supports start-up companies founded by scientists.
Kazakhstan should study these models and adapt them to its local context.
Recommendations: Steps Forward
To overcome existing barriers, JSC "Science Fund" proposes the following measures:
Simplify regulations for scientists and businesses.
Intellectual property issues often hinder collaboration between universities and enterprises. For example, complex technology licensing procedures discourage potential investors. It is essential to establish a clear regulatory framework that both protects intellectual property rights and makes the commercialization process transparent and accessible.
Increase Research Funding
Greater financial resources should be allocated both from the state budget and through private investment. Businesses that invest in scientific projects could be offered tax incentives, which would not only encourage private sector participation in research but also ensure a stable funding stream for scientific development.
Developing skilled professionals
Kazakhstan faces a shortage of professionals with expertise in managing the commercialization process. Scientists need training programs in entrepreneurship, project management, and technology transfer. Short-term courses or mini-MBA programs, for example, could equip researchers with the necessary skills to work effectively with the business sector.
Establish Proof-of-Concept Centers
These centers would allow scientists to test their ideas and demonstrate their viability to potential investors. This is especially important in the early stages, when most innovations are not ready for commercialization. Without such infrastructure, many promising projects remain at the conceptual stage.
Strengthen university-industry collaboration
To address these challenges, regular events should be organized where representatives from academia and industry can discuss potential joint projects. Such meetings would foster mutual understanding, facilitate long-term partnerships, and outline concrete pathways for collaboration.
Why it matters
The commercialization of scientific research holds significant potential for Kazakhstan, as it can
Strengthen the economy through the emergence of new industries and technologies.
Generate high-paying employment opportunities.
Improve the quality of life by facilitating the integration of innovations in industry, medicine, and agriculture.
The study shows that Kazakhstan has significant potential for the development of commercialization. However, this will require the joint efforts of government, academia and industry, as well as the removal of barriers that currently impede the translation of scientific ideas into practical applications, as highlighted by Mahabbat Sadvakasova.
