The paper looks at mutual relations between the government, scientists and industry in a knowledge-based economy. The author describes individual stages of what is referred to as the “triple loop” model showing the course of changes in this relationship. Each participant in the process derives tangible benefits from this interaction, according to Marszałek. A significant role is played by universities whose goal is to work out mechanisms to stimulate economic growth. The use of the “triple loop” model to show changes in a knowledge-based economy required an extensive analysis of English- and German-language research reports on the subject, Marszałek says. Based on this, the author examined the ties between key players in the innovation process. The author concludes that the changes taking place in a knowledge-based economy require flexibility from key market players. Thanks to building partner-like ties between science and business, universities take an active part in the process of transferring knowledge and technology to industry. Relations developed with the state administration enable universities to better promote research and development in society. Finding out about these complicated mechanisms makes it possible to develop scenarios for promoting academic centers, Marszałek says, because these institutions contribute to an increased competitiveness of the economy through innovation and fostering a congenial economic and political environment.