What Is A Research Park?

A university research park or technology incubator is defined by AURP as a property-based venture which has:

• Existing or planned land and buildings designed primarily for private and public research and development facilities, high technology and science based companies, and support services.


• A contractual and/or formal ownership or operational relationship with one or more universities or other institutions of higher education, and science research.


• A role in promoting research and development by the university in partnership with industry, assisting in the growth of new ventures, and promoting economic development.


• A role in aiding the transfer of technology and business skills between the university and industry tenants.

The park or incubator may be a not-for-profit or for-profit entity owned wholly or partially by a university or a university related entity. Alternatively, the park or incubator may be owned by a non-university entity but have a contractual or other formal relationship with a university, including joint or cooperative ventures between a privately developed research park and a university.

AURP's mission statement

Mission Statement: To promote and support the development and operation of university research parks worldwide.

Whom does AURP serve?

AURP's primary community consists of planned and operating research parks and technology incubators around the world. A variety of university, governmental, not-for-profit and private organizations interested in the development and operation of technology projects and programs, comprise the balance of AURP's membership.