The operation of USAINS represents a major success for USM in generating income and enabling its staff to supplement their salaries by commercialising their professional services. For research-intensive universities, the principal driver is scientific excellence. In the case of federally funded research institutes, they are under less pressure to be attentive to city development since they are profiled to respond to national needs. Furthermore, there is no formal process for monitoring outcomes and assessing the impact of local engagement.