This thesis is about the development of Science Parks with a focus on the real estate. Science Park
concepts are on the rise due to technological innovations that have followed in rapid succession and
the economic shift to a knowledge based economy. The rising popularity of Science Parks results in
starting Science Parks lacking experience and having difficulties in financing the real estate investments
which is affecting the survival rate of these parks. This thesis will therefore focus on the critical real
estate factors during a science park development and which of these are relevant for starting science
parks.
The critical real estate development factors in becoming a mature Science Park are identified in this
research through literature review and conducting expert interviews. Furthermore, the management
implications for the real estate development of starting Science Parks are derived through the
aforementioned methods. Based on the literature review and the conducted interviews, the
management implications for the real estate process of starting Science Parks are the following:
creating a unique theme, keeping the development flexible, centralizing supporting amenities, locating
parking on outskirts with no fixed spot, phasing of the real estate, obtaining public or private financing,
creating an diversification of firms, and clarifying the relevance of the Science Park to governmental
institutions. Based on the conducted research, starting Science Parks can apply these management
implications in order to stimulate their survival rate.