This paper straddles the systems of innovation and the economic geography theories that conceptualize universities as engines of regional development and drivers of

growth. However, these approaches overlook the heterogeneity of universities in the process of engagement, assuming their equal capacity to contribute to their region. In

the view proposed here, not only does the university influence the surrounding region, but also regional characteristics shape university performance. The paper puts

into perspective differences between university profiles in Spain based on their strategies and performance, and the scale and scope of the capabilities to contribute to their regions.