A new poll indicates that Arizonans favor a November ballot initiative that would amend the state constitution to enable state universities to take equity positions in companies that are spun out of their research discoveries.

The poll of 500 Arizona registered voters found that 52 percent favored the measure, compared to 32 percent opposed. Fifteen percent were undecided. The survey was conducted by a Virginia-based polling group on behalf of Public Policy Partners, the Phoenix firm that is directing the campaign to promote passage of the measure. The results were reported in the Business Journal.

Most supporters, however, are lukewarm. Seventeen percent said they are "strongly in favor" while 35 percent said they were "probably in favor."

The provision would enable universities to take an ownership stake in companies in exchange for business use of their research. Currently, Arizona universities can profit only through licensing fees or royalties, which is much less lucrative in comparison. About 30 states allow equity-taking, reports the Business Journal, including those with leading tech sectors.

The initiative was placed on the ballot through successful passage of enabling legislation in 2003, commonly known as the "Tech Transfer Bill."

Barry Dill of Public Policy Partners called the issue unique. "It's not controversial," he told the Business Journal. "The challenge is one of educating voters rather than a knock-down, bare-knuckle fight between two sides."

His partner, Marcus Dell-Artino, said the greatest threat could come from a presidential ballot that is crowded with initiatives. Generally, he said, the more measures on the ballot, the greater likelihood that voters will resist change.

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For more information:

"Poll shows tech transfer initiative popular so far," Business Journal, 06/14/2004

"Tech's losses at Capitol mean loss of capital," column, Arizona Republic, 06/15/2004

"Tech transfer: the big score for Arizona?" bizAZ, 05/01/2004