Local Innovation Systems in Promoting Economic Development
In an increasingly globalized word, low-cost labor, cheap land, low taxes, access to natural resources, scale economies or proximity to large markets are no guarantee of structural competitiveness. Today, economic development agencies in hundreds of jurisdictions attempt to attract clusters or complexes of complementary, competitive firms involved in high value activities. This research program examines structural elements, including policy and management issues, of local initiatives that foster innovation based on the range of activities and arrangements used by jurisdictions in pursuit of economic development. The program will also include analysis of such intangibles such as vision, cooperation and linkages in addition to institutional development, innovation support mechanisms, consensus-building, and strategic planning for industrial or sectoral innovation.
For more information about this research program, contact Jean-Paul Rioux at research@balancedviewpoint.com.
