Universities are increasingly recognized as central actors in innovation systems, contributing not only to education and research but also to entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and regional economic development. In this context, the concept of a university innovation ecosystem has gained growing attention in the literature. This study aims to identify and analyze the institutional factors that influence the formation of university innovation ecosystems. The research employs a qualitative analytical approach based on a structured review of academic literature and international policy reports related to innovation ecosystems, academic entrepreneurship, and university–industry collaboration. The analysis identifies several key institutional determinants that shape the development of university innovation ecosystems, including governance and strategic leadership, funding and financial support, technology transfer and incubation infrastructure, university–industry collaboration mechanisms, entrepreneurial culture, and digital infrastructure for innovation management. The findings suggest that innovation ecosystems within universities emerge not only from research excellence but also from the presence of supportive institutional structures and collaborative networks. The study proposes a conceptual framework illustrating how these institutional factors interact to influence innovation outcomes such as patents, industry-funded research, and academic spin-offs. The results highlight the importance of adopting a systemic and institutionally grounded approach to strengthening university innovation ecosystems.

University innovation ecosystem, institutional factors, university–industry collaboration

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