Hélice quíntupla e a jornada de startup deep tech: uma avaliação da interação de atores da hélice quíntupla ao longo do ciclo de vida das deep techs

Abstract

The term Deep Tech refers to companies that develop disruptive technologies based on cutting-edge scientific advances, such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, blockchain, agro-technology and artificial intelligence. These startups, often originating in academic environments, emerge from fundamental scientific discoveries and move towards commercial applications, characterized by longer development cycles compared to traditional startups. Involving emerging technologies and business models that have not yet been widely tested, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, deep techs have a significant impact on various sectors, transforming lives and restructuring production processes. Throughout their life cycle, these startups depend on the actions of multiple players, especially those outlined by the Innovation Helixes, from the Triple Helix to the Fivefold Helix. However, they face specific challenges, especially in terms of financing and commercializing their technologies, requiring different approaches in the context of the innovation system. In this scenario, the main objective of this research is to analyze the role of the Fivefold Helix actors throughout the life cycle of deep techs in the innovation ecosystem. To this end, it is proposed to: (i) map the existing trajectory of the deep tech startups investigated; (ii) identify the moments in the life cycle of each startup, with an emphasis on identifying critical milestones in their life cycle, focusing on initial challenges; (iii) examine the contribution of government, universities, companies, civil society and the environment at each stage; and (iv) propose guidelines for pre-acceleration programs aimed at the development of these companies. The research uses a qualitative approach, involving in-depth interviews and document analysis, seeking to understand the dynamics between the actors of the Fivefold Helix in the context of deep techs. The results indicate that the university background of these startups is strategic, as it facilitates access to networks, partnerships and potential investors in the innovation ecosystem. However, the consolidation process is challenging, especially due to the long period of research required before reaching a marketable product, which can cause demotivation and difficulties in attracting investment. Investors often prioritize market-ready solutions, aggravating the obstacles faced by deep techs in the early stages. As a theoretical contribution, the research proposes an adapted organizational life cycle model for deep tech startups, incorporating characteristics such as prolonged maturation cycles and the need for continuous support throughout all stages. On a practical level, it outlines guidelines for pre-acceleration programs, emphasizing the importance of interaction between the players in the Fivefold Helix, the strategic role of universities in providing infrastructure and mediating partnerships, and government action through public policies that prioritize funding and risk mitigation in the early stages. In addition, the connection with the innovation ecosystem, mediated by the Fivefold Helix actors, stands out as a crucial element in boosting access to essential resources, fostering strategic partnerships and accelerating the development of deep techs towards business maturity, consolidating them as transforming agents of innovation and technological development.