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This paper sought to analyse the dynamics underlying university technology transfer and commercialisation mechanisms. We adopt a qualitative research methodology, which incorporates different case studies, interviews and applied research of the actors involved in universities, business incubators and start-ups. While limited to three case studies, this paper does highlight the technology transfer mechanisms and the support provided to commercialisation, including the identification of the difficulties and opportunities present within the context of cooperation networks. By surveying those running incubators and incubator company managers in conjunction with analysis of research, development and innovation (RDI) cooperative projects backed by European funding, we were able to gain insights into the different processes of transferring and commercialising technology. Falling within the framework of the third component of universities’ mission, this article demonstrates not only the importance of RDI cooperation networks but also how the consequent commercialisation of new products and services generates positive consequences for economic growth.

The concept of the smart city acquired increasing expression and has become a strongly discussed field in the recent past among, either the research community, either the political stakeholders. Studying and intervening on the urban dynamics requires a shift from focusing on forms of knowledge and innovation outputs towards focusing on learning and innovation dynamics, exploring the diverse dimensions of knowledge building and promoting social capital. This paper aims, first, to contribute to clarify the meaning of the word 'smart' in the context of urban development through an approach based on an in-depth literature review of pertinent studies and then, to establish the links with the dimensions of entrepreneurship that can help guide more effective urban development and planning policies, illustrating with the Smart Coimbra initiative. Besides the paper aims to inform and improve policy-making on the subject of promoting entrepreneurial mindsets and contexts, speculating on some principles and guidelines that may help fertilise urban dynamics and build smarter and more entrepreneurial cities.