Education-integrated innovation intermediaries: a dual-anchor model of mid-TRL technology translation and SME capability scaffolding

Technology transfer research has explained university commercialisation, technology transfer offices, research and technology organisations and innovation brokers, but offers weaker explanations of how mid–range technologies become adoptable by small and medium–sized enterprises (SMEs) lacking internal technical routines. This multi–case qualitative study examines six education–integrated innovation intermediaries in Singapore's polytechnic and technical and vocational education and training ecosystem, including Centres of Innovation and Centres of Excellence. Drawing on interviews, documentary evidence, and site observations, the study develops the Dual–Anchor Technology Intermediation Model (DATIM). DATIM explains how an applied R&D anchor and an education–based capability anchor jointly convert technologies at technology readiness levels 4 to 7 into adoption–ready practices. Four mechanisms are identified: contextual TRL bridging, boundary–spanning knowledge deconstruction and reframing, education–embedded capability rehearsal and portfolio and pipeline orchestration. The study contributes to technology transfer theory by distinguishing technology maturity from adoption readiness; to innovation intermediary theory by conceptualising education–integrated intermediaries as translational infrastructures; and to absorptive capacity research by theorising intermediary–supported scaffolding as temporary and meaningful only when firms internalise adoption routines. The findings offer policy implications for SME–dominant innovation systems.