Innovation Inside

Universities often couple the words entrepreneur and innovator to describe programs that serve needs outside of the university, such as economic development, technology transfer, or startup companies. However, truly innovative universities also aim for change on the inside, improving research, service, and learning. They also understand that entrepreneurial change does not necessarily result in innovation—novel and creative change that produces improvement. Four ways to innovate are explored: design thinking, internal research and development, venture investing, and redesign of work communities. All support informed risk-taking. The chapter concludes with an example of a startup university: the new Indian university Plaksha, which has redefined disciplines in ways that align learning and research with innovative new technologies.