The barriers to higher education–industry cooperation (HIC) have been studied extensively. However, it is not yet clear which barriers affect which partner firms, which barriers may prevent cooperation altogether or which drivers help to overcome which specific barriers. To answer these questions, the authors conducted an original survey (a novel sample that included micro firms and small and medium-sized enterprises) and looked at HIC barriers in relation to firm characteristics and cooperation drivers. More than half of the survey sample had engaged in HIC. The results suggest that small export-oriented firms may not find suitable competences in higher education institutions and are therefore less likely to engage in HIC. Larger companies do engage in cooperation, but find strategic differences (goals, stances, time allocated) to be significant issues in cooperation. From the viewpoint of firms, possible solutions (drivers) include easy access to more information on HIC opportunities as well as support and training for student mobility.

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