I am not a specialist in the matter, but I can say that technology transfer centres are important, especially in the current context; they are clearly crucial for a large number of small and medium-sized companies which do not have the means to hire leading-edge engineers. It gives them access to technological support and to the knowledge that exists in the area. They may also access the intermediate stages of knowledge dissemination. Moreover, institutes which specialize in research on certain sectors of activity serve as a link between universities. There can be some sharing.
On March 5th, 2008. See this statement in context.