Purpose
This paper aims at exploring the role of legislations in university startups.
Design/methodology/approach
Systematic review of legislations in three countries, namely, the USA, Japan and India, has been carried out to assimilate the role of special legislations in university startups.
Findings
The findings of the study reveal the important role that legislations can play in bringing out more university startups. Legislations not only protect the interest of the founder but also provide a cushion to explore further opportunities.
Research limitations/implications
The implications for the makers of the legislations and policies start with the understanding that conducive legislations can help the founders to take up the challenge of starting a commercial entity out of research output.
Originality/value
The study adds to the limited literature connecting university startups and legislations.