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on Economics of Strategic Management |
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Issue of 2025–12–22
sixteen papers chosen by João José de Matos Ferreira, Universidade da Beira Interior |
| By: | Guillermo Arenas Díaz (Dipartimento di Politica Economica, DISCE, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy); Mariacristina Piva (Dipartimento di Politica Economica, DISCE, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy); Marco Vivarelli (Dipartimento di Politica Economica, DISCE, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milano, Italy – UNU-MERIT, Maastricht, The Netherlands – IZA, Bonn, Germany - Global Labor Organization (GLO), Essen, Germany) |
| Abstract: | This study investigates the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation inputs in Spanish manufacturing firms. While AI is increasingly recognized as a driver of productivity and economic growth, its role in shaping firms’ innovation strategies remains underexplored. Using firm-level data, our analysis focuses on whether AI complements innovation inputs - specifically R&D and Embodied Technological Change (ETC) - and whether AI can be considered as a Method of Invention, able to trigger subsequent innovation investments. Results show a positive association between AI adoption and both internal R&D and ETC, in a static and a dynamic framework. Furtheremore, empirical evidence also highlights heterogeneity, with important peculiarities affecting large vs small firms and high-tech vs low-tech companies. These findings suggest that AI may act as both a complement and a catalyst, depending on firm characteristics. |
| Keywords: | Artificial Intelligence, Method of Invention, R&D, Innovation Inputs, Innovative Complementarities |
| JEL: | O31 O32 |
| Date: | 2025–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ctc:serie5:dipe0052 |
| By: | Sophie Richit (CERGAM - Centre d'Études et de Recherche en Gestion d'Aix-Marseille - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - UTLN - Université de Toulon); Aurélie Hemonnet‐goujot (CERGAM - Centre d'Études et de Recherche en Gestion d'Aix-Marseille - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - UTLN - Université de Toulon, AMU IAE - Institut d'Administration des Entreprises (IAE) - Aix-en-Provence - AMU - Aix Marseille Université) |
| Abstract: | The inherent uncertainty of the innovation process, amplified by the complexity of the Anthropocene, means that marketers are likely to be subject to decision‐making biases that can affect sustainable product innovation. In parallel, new approaches to sustainability and innovation management are emerging, aiming to mitigate such biases and accelerate the sustainable transition. Yet, research into the critical role of individual decision‐making in innovation management is still in its early stages. Drawing on the theoretical fields of behavioural strategy, innovation management and sustainability, and using 19 case studies, our research reveals the existence of three profiles of marketers based on their attitude towards sustainable innovation: ‘conservatives', ‘progressives' and ‘transformers'. We demonstrate that these profiles are linked to specific decision‐making biases and explore how these biases shape the sustainability level of a new product. From a theoretical perspective, by bridging sustainability and innovation management through the lens of behavioural strategy, this paper improves our understanding of why fundamental differences in sustainable innovation processes and outcomes exist. Our research contributes to the existing literature on the topic by developing a typology of marketers towards sustainable innovation, and by identifying new cognitive biases in marketing practices. It reveals which biases hinder sustainable innovation and which ones positively influence the sustainability of new products. |
| Keywords: | decision-making bias, marketing role, new product development (NPD), sustainable innovation |
| Date: | 2025–11–29 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05389626 |
| By: | Giulio Valerio Corbelli (Università degli Studi di Ferrara; SEEDS, Italy) |
| Abstract: | This working paper investigates how Italian innovative startups integrate sustainability, innovation, and inclusion within their strategic and organizational frameworks. Drawing on a national survey of 1, 000 firms registered under the Italian Start-up Act, the study examines the structural, behavioral, and perceptual dimensions of sustainability-oriented entrepreneurship. The empirical analysis combines descriptive, comparative, and multivariate methods—including hierarchical and K-means cluster analyses—to identify typologies of startups that reflect different configurations of technological intensity, environmental commitment, and inclusiveness. The results show that Italian innovative startups are predominantly small, recently founded, and highly research-oriented, with a strong concentration in knowledge-intensive sectors. Sustainability- oriented startups—those identifying as “green†or “partially green†—represent almost half of the sample. They tend to be younger, employ a higher share of R&D personnel, and meet a greater number of legal requirements for innovative status. However, gender inclusiveness remains limited: female participation among founders and managers is low, and only a minority of startups implement formal inclusion policies. Cluster analysis reveals two main archetypes: (1) Technological Mainstream startups—larger, R&D- intensive firms focused on technological performance—and (2) Sustainable and Gender- Balanced startups—smaller but more inclusive and institutionally embedded. Within the subset of sustainability-oriented firms, two additional groups emerge: Tech-Green Operative Firms, focused on eco-efficiency and technological solutions, and Sustainable & Inclusive Champions, integrating environmental, social, and economic objectives. Finally, a set of econometric models was estimated to assess whether sustainability orientation systematically predicts key performance, innovation, and perception outcomes. The results confirm that green and partially green startups display distinct behavioral and strategic patterns even after controlling for size, age, sector, and regional factors. |
| Keywords: | Sustainable entrepreneurship; Innovation ecosystems; Startups; Italy; Inclusion; Resource Based View; Institutional Theory; Cluster analysis. |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:srt:wpaper:1425 |
| By: | Chen, Kevin; Hu, Shuang; Ji, Chen |
| Keywords: | Agribusiness, Environmental Economics and Policy |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aaea24:344015 |
| By: | Abeyrathne, GAKNJ; De Mel, Suresh |
| Abstract: | This study highlights several critical insights into the innovation behaviour of Sri Lankan SMEs. The consistent positive impact of bank loan accessibility across all innovation types underscores the essential role of finance in enabling innovations. In Sri Lanka, where many SMEs face collateral-related credit constraints, this finding signals the urgent need to expand accessible and innovation-linked financing mechanisms. Similarly, the positive association of product customisation with innovation suggests that customer-oriented strategies are a practical pathway for SMEs to enhance competitiveness through incremental innovations. However, increased competition was found to discourage product and process innovations. In the Sri Lankan context, this may reflect market saturation in certain sectors and price-driven competition that leaves little room for innovation investments. It also indicates a need for strategic support to help SMEs move from survival-based competition to value-based competition. The negative relationship between institutional support and innovation may point to the inefficiency or misalignment of government Programmes and public sector initiatives. Many such initiatives in Sri Lanka tend to be bureaucratic and detached from the ground-level challenges of SMEs, resulting in limited uptake or practical impact. Based on these findings, several policy actions are recommended. First, Sri Lanka should enhance innovation-oriented credit schemes, particularly through institutions like the SME Banks and Regional Development Banks (RDB), targeting process and product innovations with favourable terms. Second, existing institutional support services should be restructured to be more demand-driven, localized, and participatory, including mentoring, innovation vouchers, and technical consultancy services. Third, fostering SME collaboration through industry clusters and value chains can help reduce the adverse effects of intense competition. Finally, innovation Programmes should actively promote customer-centric business models and product tailoring as viable strategies for SME growth in both urban and rural settings. |
| Keywords: | SMEs; Innovation; Sustainable Economic Development; Organizational Determinants; Geographical Factors |
| JEL: | L52 |
| Date: | 2025–09–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:126634 |
| By: | Wang Xiao (Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia Author-2-Name: Thoo Ai Chin Author-2-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia Author-3-Name: Author-3-Workplace-Name: Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:) |
| Abstract: | " Objective - Although environmental collaboration has emerged as a critical strategy for enhancing sustainability performance in the manufacturing industry, the factors influencing it, the specific practices, and their relationship with sustainability performance remain unclear. Methodology/Technique - This study conducts a comprehensive literature review using a content analysis approach to examine the factors influencing environmental collaboration, its specific practices, and its relationship with sustainability performance. Drawing on an extensive analysis of publications from 2004 to 2024, this research identifies key success factors and practices for effective environmental collaboration. Findings - It examines the relationship between ecological collaboration and sustainability performance. The findings reveal nine multifaceted, interconnected factors that advance environmental collaboration. Moreover, key practices of environmental collaboration with suppliers and customers mainly involve jointly setting sustainability goals, promoting green production and packaging, managing waste and take-back initiatives, and cooperating on environmental knowledge sharing and compliance. Novelty - Furthermore, this study suggests that environmental collaboration directly impacts sustainability performance. By identifying these, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental collaboration and its impact on sustainability performance in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, this study provides a path for future research. Type of Paper - Review" |
| Keywords: | Environmental collaboration, sustainability performance, manufacturing industry, supply chain partner. |
| JEL: | M40 M49 |
| Date: | 2025–12–31 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:afr245 |
| By: | Khairul Firdaus Anuar (Faculty of Technology, Design & Management, UCYP University, Pahang, Malaysia Author-2-Name: Nurhaizan Mohd Zainudin Author-2-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah, Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, 26300, Gambang, Pahang, Malaysia Author-3-Name: Muhammad Ashraf Fauzi Author-3-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Industrial Management, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah, Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, 26300, Gambang, Pahang, Malaysia Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:) |
| Abstract: | " Objective - This study investigates the impact of Transformational Leadership (TL) on Organizational Infrastructure Resources; Knowledge Sharing (KS), Human Resource Management (HRM) and Top Management Commitment (TMC) in Malaysian construction organizations. Grounded in the Contingency Theory, this research posits that TL is strategic in nature by assisting in aligning internal capabilities to performance goals within a project-driven environment. Methodology/Technique - Using a survey method, this study obtained usable responses to investigate the extent to which these variables affect performance, using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) analysis. Findings - The results of the empirical study reveal that TL has a significant positive influence on all three KS dimensions (KS among projects, KS within projects, and KS within organizations), HRM, and TMC. These results highlight the importance of TL for knowledge-oriented collaboration, the intensification of HR practices, and the strengthening of executive alignment. Novelty - The research adds to the leadership and construction management literature by presenting the significant empirical proof of organizing TL into the organization's infrastructure. Practical implications argue for the institutionalization of TL-based leadership development and its inclusion in HRM and strategic governance practices to enhance organizational performance in construction firms. Type of Paper - Empirical" |
| Keywords: | Transformational Leadership; Knowledge Sharing; Human Resource Management; Top Management Commitment; Construction Industry; Malaysia. |
| JEL: | L00 L25 L74 |
| Date: | 2025–12–31 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:jmmr353 |
| By: | Zheng Shuyue (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, UTM Johor Bahru, Malaysia Author-2-Name: Azra Ayue Abdul Rahman Author-2-Workplace-Name: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, UTM Johor Bahru, Malaysia Author-3-Name: Author-3-Workplace-Name: Author-4-Name: Author-4-Workplace-Name: Author-5-Name: Author-5-Workplace-Name: Author-6-Name: Author-6-Workplace-Name: Author-7-Name: Author-7-Workplace-Name: Author-8-Name: Author-8-Workplace-Name:) |
| Abstract: | " Objective - This study aims to analyze prior research on digital maturity and its relationship to creative performance and employee dynamic capabilities, with employee state optimism (ESO) as a mediator. The study develops this framework by synthesizing the main themes and dominant theories found in existing literature. Methodology - This study conducted a systematic literature review of 23 peer-reviewed articles published in leading journals between 2011 and 2025. This study conducted a systematic literature review on the fragmented literature examining digital maturity effect on creative performance and employee dynamic capabilities, with employee state optimism (ESO) as a mediator. Findings - The number of related variables publications has increased sharply over the past five years. The findings also show that dynamic capability theory, conservation of resources theory, and positive organizational behavior theory are commonly used to support these studies. It is also found that research on employee state optimism, particularly as a mediating variable, remains limited. Type of Paper - Review" |
| Keywords: | Digital Maturity; Employee's State Optimism; Creative Performance; Employee Dynamic Capabilities |
| JEL: | C22 D72 E52 |
| Date: | 2025–12–31 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gtr:gatrjs:jber265 |
| By: | Lydia Papadaki; Eirini Afentouli; Phoebe Koundouri |
| Abstract: | The climate crisis puts a lot of stress on the agriculture sector, from the extreme weather patterns, water shortages, to deteriorating soil health. Innovation is essential for fostering resilience via climate-smart behaviors, sophisticated technology, and adaptable value chains. The goal of this study is to provide a review of the strategies, and processes that have consistently led to superior outcomes in rural innovation and entrepreneurship in the context of start-up villages located in Europe. Employing a structured evaluative framework, this study dissects successful initiatives by examining critical dimensions such as leadership dynamics, regional readiness levels, core economic sectors and the roles of key players. The analysis further delves into the innovation and creativity embedded within each practice, and the systemic barriers to entrepreneurship encountered across various contexts. Spanning diverse geographic and socio-economic profiles-distinguished by size, proximity to urban centers, and sectoral strengths-the selected case study areas offer a rich comparative lens. The study identifies common success factors and local adaptations, highlighting how strategic resource mobilization, enabling infrastructure, and community-based leadership underpin effective innovation ecosystems. Lessons learned from each context are distilled to assess scalability potential and strategic implications for Startup Village Partners and similar initiatives aiming to foster rural revitalization through sustainable entrepreneurship. By comparing and examining startup villages listed in the European Startup Village Forum, this analysis contributes a replicable framework for identifying and transferring best practices, ultimately supporting more inclusive, place-based innovation policies. |
| Keywords: | Climate resilience, Food security, Innovation, start-up villages, entrepreneurship |
| Date: | 2025–12–15 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:aue:wpaper:2571 |
| By: | Davide Antonioli (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Elisa Chioatto (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Ginevra Coletti (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Asia Guerreschi (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Susanna Mancinelli (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Massimiliano Mazzanti (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Giuseppe Rocco (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)); Emy Zecca (Department of Economics and Management, University of Ferrara; Sustainability Environmental Economics and Dynamics Studies (SEEDS)) |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a collection of large-scale empirical surveys investigating how Italian territories, firms, institutions, and communities are navigating processes of sustainability, innovation, and socio-economic transformation. The document brings together five original surveys covering: (i) sustainable school mobility in Ferrara (Walking School Bus), (ii) innovation and circular economy practices among Italian manufacturing firms (TINKER project), (iii) circular-oriented innovation in the Emilia–Romagna construction sector (SPIDER project), (iv) sustainability, circularity and innovation strategies among regional firms within the ECOSISTER project, (v) circular and digital innovation in Italian manufacturing cooperatives (Climate Circular Coop), and (vi) socio-economic impacts of cultural heritage on tourists and residents (Cultural Heritage Impact Survey). Each survey relies on structured sampling strategies and mixed CAWI/CATI methodologies and provides a comprehensive dataset on behavioural, organisational, and contextual dynamics. Together, these contributions offer a multidimensional empirical framework for analysing Italy’s twin transition—ecological and digital—and the role of local contexts, human capital, financial constraints, and institutional frameworks in shaping sustainability pathways. |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:srt:wpaper:1725 |
| By: | Coccia, Mario |
| Abstract: | Forecasting technological trajectories requires understanding the mechanisms that accelerate systemic innovation. This study develops a macroevolutionary framework, positing that host technologies evolve through the microevolution of embedded subsystems. A longitudinal analysis of the iPhone (2007–2025) and Bluetooth technologies reveals that subsystem advancements consistently precede and enable major system-level innovations, with integration lags shrinking from three to one year—evidence of accelerating co-evolution. Subsystem improvements in camera resolution and display quality exhibit exponential growth, significantly shaping the macroevolution of smartphone capabilities. Hedonic pricing models further highlight battery life and display resolution as dominant drivers of innovation and market value. Theoretical implications include extending evolutionary models of technological change by identifying subsystem evolution as a fundamental mechanism of systemic progress. Managerial implications emphasize the strategic importance of aligning subsystem development with host technology integration to reduce innovation delays and sustain competitive advantage. This approach enhances technology forecasting and informs resource allocation in dynamic innovation ecosystems. |
| Date: | 2025–12–05 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:socarx:f6qhc_v1 |
| By: | Meng Yu Ngov; Pierre-Louis Vezina; Trang Thu Tran; Gaurav Nayyar |
| Abstract: | When countries subsidize the production and innovation of green goods, does it make it easier for others to join their value chains? We explore this question using Viet Nam’s solar panel industry as a case study, using firm-to-firm transaction data to map out its value chain. We find that Viet Nam imports solar parts and components at substantially lower prices from subsidizing countries: about 30% cheaper than from non-subsidizing countries and nearly 50% cheaper from China, where all key inputs are subsidized. We also find that Chinese FDI firms - which account for around 75% of exports and 50% of jobs among all solar producers - export solar panels at around 38% cheaper than other solar panel exporters in Viet Nam. Lastly, we find that local suppliers of solar panel parts and components linked to these firms experience positive productivity gains. Together, the results are consistent with subsidy spillovers that operate through cheaper intermediate inputs, transmission of cost advantage through multinational production networks, and productivity spillovers to local firms. |
| Keywords: | global value chains, green subsidies, FDI |
| JEL: | F14 F23 Q42 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:csa:wpaper:2025-14 |
| By: | Payal Malik (Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER)); Aman Sinha; Saloni Dhadwal; Jayati Sareen; Harishankar Jagadeesh |
| Abstract: | This report addresses a critical gap in policy discussions on the standard-essential patent (SEP) licensing ecosystem by examining the perspectives of startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India. Global policy debates on SEPs typically focus on balancing the interests of SEP holders and implementers, while overlooking the unique challenges faced by emerging firms in intellectual property creation, monetisation, participation in standard-setting processes, and navigating the complexities of SEP licensing. Our analysis finds that many economic concerns surrounding SEPs are overstated when assessed against real-world evidence. Industries built on standardized technologies have thrived under the current SEP framework, where fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) commitments have supported innovation and interoperability without imposing undue burdens on consumers or follow-on innovators. The key challenge for India lies not in systemic flaws within the global SEP regime, but in strengthening its domestic capacity to effectively engage with and benefit from this ecosystem. The empirical evidence we examined in this report does not support claims of systemic market failure in SEP licensing. While some inefficiencies and transactional frictions remain, these can be addressed through market-based mechanisms rather than regulation, thereby preserving incentives for innovation. Based on these insights, we recommend targeted policy measures to bolster India's innovation landscape. These include institutional support to increase the participation of Indian firms in standard-setting activities, development of a robust intellectual property regime that enhances competitiveness, and the provision of efficient pathways for resolving SEP disputes, such as fast-tracked mediation and arbitration to avoid protracted litigation. By providing a nuanced, evidence-based assessment, this report seeks to inform policies that may empower Indian startups and SMEs to play a strategic role in the global SEP ecosystem and strengthen India's overall innovation capacity. |
| Keywords: | patent, SEP, intellectual property, FRAND, medium-sized enterprises, icrier |
| Date: | 2025–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bdc:report:25-r-19 |
| By: | Lasarte Lopez Jesus (European Commission - JRC); M'barek Robert (European Commission - JRC) |
| Abstract: | The bioeconomy encompasses a wide range of activities that utilise renewable biological resources, from agriculture and forestry to biotechnology and bio-based industries, to produce food, materials, and energy, as well as related services. In 2023, the biomass producing and converting sectors created 17.1 million jobs, equivalent to 7.9% of total EU’s employment. Additionally, it generated a value added of EUR 863 billion, accounting for 5% of EU’s GDP. The bio-based industry accounted for EUR 583 billion in economic value added, half of which (EUR 305 billion) are generated by food, beverages and other agro-manufacturing. The manufacturing of bio-based pharmaceuticals with EUR 102 billion, followed by wood products and furniture (EUR 61 billion), paper (EUR 52 billion), and bio-based textiles (EUR 29 billion), bio-based chemicals (EUR 14 billion) and bio-based plastics and rubber (EUR 4 billion). When including the services, the size of all bioeconomy-relevant sectors is significantly higher. The bioeconomy-relevant sectors generated EUR 1.9-2.7 trillion in value added (11-16% of EU’s GDP) and created between 42 and 60 million jobs (19-28% of EU’s total employment). In 2023, the business expenditure in research and development (R&D) from the biomass producing and converting sectors in the EU was estimated at EUR 17.3 billion, corresponding to 6.7% of the total EU's business expenditure in R&D. If related scientific and knowledge-based activities are included, the amount is EUR 23.2 billion (9.0% of total EU´s business expenditure). Over the last years, the socioeconomic indicators of the bioeconomy have shown an increasing contribution to GDP and R&D expenditure, evincing the potential for fostering innovation, productivity and competitiveness. |
| Date: | 2025–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc143759 |
| By: | Lydia Papadaki; Ebun Akinsete (ICRE8); Alice Guittard (ICRE8); Phoebe Koundouri |
| Abstract: | The complex interrelations between ocean governance, climate change, and innovation create both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development in the Black Sea region. The Blue Economy-encompassing fisheries, tourism, ports, shipping, and marine transport-plays a crucial role in regional prosperity but faces mounting pressures from overfishing, pollution, geopolitical instability, and the low capacity for technological and institutional adaptation. The EU-funded projects DOORS and BRIDGE-BS address these challenges through participatory, system-based approaches that engage stakeholders from across the quadruple helix (academia, industry, government, and civil society). While DOORS sought to identify policy and innovation gaps at the regional level through Multi-Actor Forums (MAFs), BRIDGE-BS explored future pathways for a sustainable and resilient Blue Economy using Living Labs (LLs) and participatory foresight. Together, they reveal a persistent disconnect between local implementation capacity and national policy ambition, as local actors often remain "locked in" existing practices and lack the skills and resources to embrace emerging sectors. Findings highlight shared sectoral priorities-capture fisheries, marine and coastal tourism, ports and shipping, and marine transport-and common challenges, including weak law enforcement, fragmented governance, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and limited technological innovation. The study underscores the value of participatory multi-actor engagement in bridging the science�policy�practice gap, supporting skills development, and co-designing actionable pathways toward climate-resilient ocean governance. Lessons from the Black Sea demonstrate that integrating systems innovation, participatory governance, and capacity building can inform broader regional and global initiatives under the EU Mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters, " the UN Ocean Decade, and the SDGs, providing a transferable model for advancing sustainable blue transitions in politically sensitive marine regions. |
| Keywords: | Black Sea, Blue Economy governance, Blue Economy, Co-creation, Innovation Pathways, Living Labs, Multi-Actor Forums, Systems Approaches, Systems Innovation |
| Date: | 2025–12–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:aue:wpaper:2570 |
| By: | Koski, Heli; Rouvinen, Petri |
| Abstract: | Abstract The focus of next-generation mobile network development has shifted from infrastructure to data, software, and innovation ecosystems. Leading firms are expanding their R&D investments most rapidly in digital services and semiconductors, while R&D in telecommunications infrastructure has grown more slowly. At the same time, global technological leadership has increasingly concentrated in the United States and Asia. Europe’s share has declined across nearly all domains central to 5G and 6G technologies, and its position in data-driven innovation, software, and commercial scaling has weakened. The EU’s digital regulation has become a double-edged sword: it strengthens privacy and consumer protection but simultaneously increases the costs of innovation and business growth, particularly in data-intensive sectors. Competitiveness in the 6G era will require a balance between regulation, innovation, and investment. Europe must strengthen the conditions for data utilization and ease regulatory constraints that hinder innovation. In the long term, competitiveness will depend not only on the creation of new firms but also on Europe’s ability to grow and sustain its own global players that can create value across the key layers of the data-driven economy. |
| Keywords: | 5G, 6G, Global markets, Regulation, Innovation capabilities, Patents, R&D |
| JEL: | E62 E63 H30 |
| Date: | 2025–12–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:rif:briefs:169 |