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on Economics of Strategic Management |
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Issue of 2026–10–12
thirteen papers chosen by João José de Matos Ferreira, Universidade da Beira Interior |
| By: | Grillitsch, Markus (CIRCLE, Lund University); Tavassoli, Sam (Deakin University); Obschonka, Martin (University of Amsterdam) |
| Abstract: | Firms in peripheral and less knowledge endowed regions often struggle with innovation, as it is deeply rooted in and influenced by local characteristics. Although recent research highlights the significant, yet complex and hard-to-quantify role of local 'soft factors' such as culture and macro-psychology (e.g., local psychological openness) for firm innovation, we know relatively little about its specific role for firms located in the knowledge periphery. This study examines the hypothesis that favorable local soft factors, such as psychological openness, can compensate for unfavorable local hard factors for innovation of firms located in the knowledge periphery. Drawing upon Schmookler's scissor metaphor, we theoretically elaborate how local psychological openness impacts firm innovation by shaping both the demand and supply sides of the innovation process. In our arguments, we also incorporated the contingent impact of both regional (external) and firm (internal) factors on the relationship between local psychological openness and firm innovation. Our empirical investigation of a large and longitudinal sample of Swedish firms across 2004 to 2018 revealed a compensatory effect of local psychological openness for local 'structural knowledge gaps' in less endowed peripheral regions. Implications for research and policymaking addressing innovation in firms and regions are discussed. |
| Keywords: | firm innovation; local psychological openness; knowledge spillovers; peripheral regions |
| JEL: | O31 O33 R11 |
| Date: | 2026–09–25 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lucirc:2025_007 |
| By: | Wise, Emily (CIRCLE, Lund University); Wilson, James (Orkestra, Deusto Foundation); Schwaag Serger, Sylvia (CIRCLE, Lund University) |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the evolving role of universities in transferring and developing knowledge to foster transformative Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy amid significant shifts in economic development landscapes. With a rising focus on geopolitics, defense, resilience, and disruptive technologies, universities are increasingly expected to engage and act as catalysts for sustainable development. The research explores how academic institutions interact with policymakers by analyzing "knowledge for policy" relationships, emphasising structural, operational, and practice-oriented factors. Building on a peer-learning exercise hosted by the Governing Resilience and Transformation (GReaTr) initiative in Sweden, the study draws insights from a comparative analysis of five cases of academic institutions, representing diverse contexts and experiences. Findings reveal the challenges universities face in aligning with transformative innovation policies, particularly given the multidisciplinary expertise and agile operational capacities required. Despite evolving practices such as action research and co-created knowledge products, the complexities of addressing urgent and multifaceted policy issues persist. The study concludes by calling for more dynamic and interactive approaches to knowledge creation, stressing the need for universities to adapt their strategies to better engage with policymakers' evolving contexts and demands. |
| Keywords: | Transformative universities; Transformative innovation policies; Knowledge transfer for policy; Science policy interface |
| JEL: | I23 O32 O38 |
| Date: | 2026–09–25 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lucirc:2025_012 |
| By: | Acevedo, Carlos (Universidad Mayor de San Simón); Trojer, Lena (CIRCLE, Lund University); Vogelmann, Helene (Region Dalarna) |
| Abstract: | Interactive learning is essential for fostering effective innovation processes that contribute to inclusive and sustainable development. The institution at the core of this study is Universidad Mayor de San Simón (UMSS) in Cochabamba, with its Technology Transfer Unit (UTT) serving as the primary promoter and facilitator of SME clusters, which function as interactive learning spaces. These initiatives are inspired by the concept of Developmental University, aimed at producing alternatives for knowledge democratization in the Global South. Scholars argue in low-income countries the intellectual property rights (IPR) system promoted by the Global North hinders their innovation capacities, not only by restricting access to knowledge, but also by failing to adequately protect their own intellectual assets, including traditional knowledge and biodiversity-related innovations. One significant challenge in the multi-actor processes of innovation for inclusive and sustainable development is the issue of ownership, which may not initially appear to be the most pressing concern when establishing effective conditions for co-development. What forms of more open and effective intellectual property sharing can support knowledge democratization and inclusive innovation? In this paper, we present a specific case that allows us to recognize questions and draw insights to explore new IPR alternatives pertinent to environments characterised by developmental university ideals, distributed agency and inclusive innovation approaches in the Global South. |
| Keywords: | Inclusive innovation; Developmental university; (post)IPR; Commons; Bolivia |
| JEL: | I23 O19 O34 |
| Date: | 2026–09–25 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lucirc:2025_013 |
| By: | Ludovic Dibiaggio (SKEMA Business School, France); Lionel Nesta (Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, GREDEG, France; SKEMA Business School, France; OFCE, Sciences Po Paris, France) |
| Abstract: | Research on national innovation systems emphasizes linkages among distributed capabilities but offers limited means of observing whether they are technologically connected. We conceptualize domestic integration as the system-level capacity to connect complementary capabilities across techniques, functions, and applications. Using 1.4 million AI-related patents and 330, 000 scientific publications from 1990 to 2021, we operationalize integration through cross-layer alignment and distinguish it from downstream application specialization. Integration is positively associated with quality-weighted inventive performance, but its contribution changes over technological development. Before 2012, it supports inventive performance across levels of specialization, consistent with footloose integration under uncertainty. After 2012, its returns increasingly depend on strong downstream specialization, indicating grounded integration. Cross-layer alignment is also associated with higher patent quality and the reuse and deepening of existing AI combinations rather than radical combinatorial novelty. These findings identify domestic integration as a distinct dimension of national innovative capacity and suggest that technological sovereignty depends less on self-sufficiency than on the capacity to connect and reconfigure complementary capabilities. |
| Keywords: | domestic integration; national innovation systems; artificial intelligence; technological evolution; technological sovereignty |
| JEL: | O31 O33 O34 D80 L86 |
| Date: | 2026–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2026-24 |
| By: | Pinelopi Goldberg; Reka Juhasz; Giulia Lo Forte; Jeff Thurk |
| Abstract: | We show that cross-border learning is an important feature of modern semiconductor manufacturing and that several important channels – such as knowledge sharing along global supply chains, the movement of engineers within multinational firms, and foreign direct investment – operate through market mechanisms rather than anonymous technological spillovers. These findings have significant policy implications. When cross-border learning is mediated by purposeful economic relationships, access to frontier knowledge is neither automatic nor guaranteed. Firms and governments can facilitate – or restrict – the international diffusion of technology, implying that policies to foster domestic technological upgrading are likely to be most effective when coupled with continued access to global sources of frontier knowledge. |
| Keywords: | semiconductors, international knowledge diffusion, learning-by-doing, cross-border learning |
| JEL: | F50 F61 L63 N60 O30 |
| Date: | 2026 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_13029 |
| By: | Christophe Storaï (LISA - Laboratoire « Lieux, Identités, eSpaces, Activités » (UMR CNRS 6240 LISA) - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli [Université de Corse Pascal Paoli]) |
| Abstract: | Corsica's economic structure is characterized by a weak industrial base, the absence of large multinational corporations, and a limited presence of intermediate-sized firms typically associated with regional economic dynamism. Instead, the island economy relies predominantly on micro- enterprises, small-scale agricultural activities, artisans, and local service providers. Within this context—combined with a structurally dominant public sector—the emergence of a sustainable development trajectory depends largely on the capacity of territorial actors to mobilize endogenous resources. This chapter argues that the articulation between human capital formation, technological research, and territorial governance constitutes a fundamental lever for the emergence of a localized skills-based economy. Drawing on theoretical contributions from territorial economics and the knowledge economy, it highlights how the Corsican case illustrates the relevance of a "territorial specification" strategy based on the valorization of localized resources and collective learning processes. By emphasizing the role of higher education institutions, innovation infrastructures, and governance mechanisms, the study contributes to the understanding of how peripheral territories can build resilience and attractiveness in a context of intensified global competition. |
| Keywords: | territorial governance, skills economy, regional development, Human capital, Human capital regional development skills economy territorial governance |
| Date: | 2026–08–24 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05729253 |
| By: | Michel Beine; Giovanni Peri; Morgan Raux; Lilie Timricht |
| Abstract: | We provide the first global empirical evidence on the relationship between international master’s education and entrepreneurship. Using large-scale longitudinal data from LinkedIn/Revelio, we document that international master’s graduates are systematically more likely than domestic graduates to create firms across the world’s leading destinations for international students. We further show how this entrepreneurial advantage varies across fields of study, gender, origin and destination countries. In addition, we document the geography of post-graduation firm creation, highlighting the international mobility of entrepreneurial activity among former international students. Taken together, the results offer a new global perspective on the economic impact of international student mobility and the contribution of international master’s graduates to entrepreneurship, innovation, and business dynamism worldwide. |
| Keywords: | foreign students, entrepreneurship, master’s programs, STEM |
| JEL: | F22 I23 M13 |
| Date: | 2026 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_13014 |
| By: | Marcut Mirela (European Commission - JRC); Rodriguez Müller Paula (European Commission - JRC); Reimeris Ramojus (European Commission - JRC) |
| Abstract: | Experimental governance helps administrations manage uncertainty and complexity by mobilising actors, experimenting in safe spaces, coordinating across boundaries, balancing competing interests, and institutionalising lessons learned. Strong governance and innovation performance are closely linked. Regions with higher quality of government attract more innovation funding and produce better outcomes, underscoring the role that public sector capacity plays in innovation ecosystems. Case studies show experimental governance in practice, revealing how different policy contexts shape which functions are prioritised and how they interact. Recommendations include developing tools to empower public administrations to engage in experimental governance: support for experimental clauses, developing sharing repositories, developing internal staff capacity to engage in innovation |
| Date: | 2026–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc147951 |
| By: | Eken, Adnan; Yalçın, Cihan; Yazıcı, Didem |
| Abstract: | It is a widely accepted view in the literature that foreign direct investments contribute to overall economic performance by financing the current account deficit in a healthy channel and increasing total factor productivity in host countries through technology transfer. In this study, basic balance sheet ratios of foreign owned companies are compared with those of domestic ones operating in Turkish manufacturing industry for the period of 2009-2023. In addition, the determinants of profit margins (an indicator of firm performance) of foreign owned companies are tested using the dynamic panel method. Moreover, export share and its interactions with companies’ foreign owned shares (CFS), scale and age groups are included as independent variables in the regressions. The results revealed that there is a positive relationship between export shares and profit margins. This positive relationship is more visible for younger, relatively smaller and firms with higher CFS. Therefore, increase in the activities of these company groups might contribute to the sustainability of the external balance in Türkiye. |
| Keywords: | Foreign direct investments, firm characteristics, profitability, dynamic panel |
| JEL: | C23 D22 F21 L25 |
| Date: | 2025–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:126430 |
| By: | Cuong Le Van (PSE - Paris School of Economics - UP1 - Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne - ENS-PSL - École normale supérieure - Paris - PSL - Université Paris Sciences et Lettres - EHESS - École des hautes études en sciences sociales - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - INRAE - Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement - ENPC - École nationale des ponts et chaussées - IP Paris - Institut Polytechnique de Paris, TIMAS, Thang Long University, CES - Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne - UP1 - Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UP1 - Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne); Tin Nguyen-Trong (EconomiX - EconomiX - UPN - Université Paris Nanterre - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Ngoc-Sang Pham (BETA - Bureau d'Économie Théorique et Appliquée - AgroParisTech - UNISTRA - Université de Strasbourg - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) Mulhouse - Colmar - UL - Université de Lorraine - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - INRAE - Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, UL - Université de Lorraine, Métis Lab EM Normandie - EM Normandie - École de Management de Normandie = EM Normandie Business School, EconomiX - EconomiX - UPN - Université Paris Nanterre - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique); Thi Kim Cuong Pham (EconomiX - EconomiX - UPN - Université Paris Nanterre - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) |
| Abstract: | We develop a growth model with an R&D sector in which the elasticity of innovation with respect to existing knowledge can be negative. We investigate the existence and uniqueness of a balanced growth path (BGP) and derive closed-form growth factors, showing that productivity and output growth are semi-endogenous and population-driven. We also establish the global stability under a general production function. Under testable parameter restrictions, the economy converges to the BGP. However, when the knowledge elasticity is sufficiently low, a Jacobian-based condition implies instability, and an N-period innovation cycle can emerge. Comparative statics are conducted to explore the impact of several factors, including research efficiency, input elasticity, and population growth. Numerical simulations map out transitions and mark the points at which stability is lost. They make clear when innovation frictions endanger balanced growth and provide practical guidance for R&D and demographic policy. |
| Keywords: | Population-driven growth, Balanced growth path, Stability, Instability, Innovation, Monotone dynamical system, Knowledge, Semi-endogenous growth |
| Date: | 2026–09–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:cesptp:hal-05770311 |
| By: | Mazzoni Leonardo; Rossi Maria Alessandra; Fabbri Emanuele (European Commission - JRC) |
| Abstract: | Over the past decade, the Western Balkans have been gradually aligning their research and innovation systems with the European Research Area and adopted Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) as relevant framework for place-based innovation policies. Despite recent improvements in innovation performance, the region continues to face structural constraints that hinder convergence with the European Union, making it crucial to understand regional capabilities to close innovation gaps, and Economic Complexity approach can provide a robust framework by inferring productive capabilities, assessing technological sophistication, and identifying feasible diversification pathways. In such a context, this study applies the Economic Complexity framework to Western Balkans granular export data over the past decade to assess patterns of structural transformation and convergence. The findings indicate that the region has made notable progress in narrowing the gap in export volumes relative to Europe, particularly in comparison with the European Balkans. Notwithstanding these improvements, the average level of sophistication of the Western Balkans’ sectoral specialisation remains significantly below the European benchmark and continues to be concentrated in low-complexity activities, with only a limited number of emerging higher-value niches. Evidence from global complexity rankings further suggests that, although the Western Balkans have modestly improved their relative positions - primarily through advances in trade and research-related indicators - the technological gap with Europe has, in fact, widened. These quantitative results are complemented by qualitative insights derived from interviews with key stakeholders involved in the design and implementation of Smart Specialisation Strategies across the Western Balkans. |
| Date: | 2026–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc146646 |
| By: | Xuelin Wang (Central China Normal University [Wuhan, China]); Xiaofeng Qin (EM - EMLyon Business School); Yeming Gong (EM - EMLyon Business School); Ajay Kumar (EM - EMLyon Business School); Xinyuan Lu (Central China Normal University [Wuhan, China]) |
| Abstract: | Incubators play a vital role in entrepreneurial ecosystems by providing start-ups with resources such as funding, mentorship, and access to networks. Incubator systems differ from traditional organizations because start-ups remain legally and strategically independent, which limits hierarchical control and makes coordination inherently relational. However, existing research tends to emphasize the effects of individual resources, paying less attention to how incubators orchestrate resources through ongoing interaction with ventures, leaving unresolved why incubators with similar resource bases often produce markedly different outcomes. Thus, drawing on Resource Orchestration Theory, this study examines how incubators structure, bundle, and leverage resources, and how orchestration operates across multiple levels to shape start-up growth and incubator performance. Based on a qualitative multi-case study, we identify a four-stage cyclical orchestration process in which incubators (1) structure a foundational resource base, (2) provide tailored initial resource packages, (3) dynamically reconfigure bundled resources as ventures evolve, and (4) activate start-up feedback. Feedback takes concrete forms such as alumni mentoring, network bridging, investment connections, and reputational endorsements, which replenish the incubator's resource base and enable subsequent rounds of support. We further theorize a multi-level mechanism comprising incubator orchestration, start-up orchestration, and joint orchestration; joint orchestration operates through coordinated resource acquisition, bundling, and leveraging, helping explain outcome heterogeneity beyond resource stock differences. |
| Keywords: | Start up, Resource orchestration theory, Multi-level, Incubator, Feedback loop |
| Date: | 2026–12–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05748343 |
| By: | Silvia Iossa; Saverio Barabuffi |
| Abstract: | This study examines whether universities shape the regional innovation effects of public R&D expenditure and whether this role varies across regional development trajectories. We analyse a panel of 1166 EU NUTS 3 regions over the period 2007-2020, combining data on European public R&D funding, patenting performance, university presence and regional development traps. Toa ddress the endogeneity of public R&D expenditure, we employ a control function aproach. The results show that public r&D expendirue positively affects patenting performance in both university and non-university, but the difference between them is not statistically significant. University presence therefore does not sistematically amplify the returns to public R&D. However, its moderating role becomes more pronounced in regions exposed to development trap risk and in regions experiencing persistent stagnation, while evidence is weaker for trap intensity. These fundings suggest that universities act as contingent rather than unviersal catalyst of public R&D. Their contribution appears particularly relevant in vulnerable and persistently stagnant regional trajectories, but less able to offset sever structural constraints. The study contributes to debates on the geography of public R&D and regional development traps by showing that the effectiveness of research funding depends not only on institutional presence, bu also on the development rajectory in which that institutional capacity is embedded. |
| Date: | 2026–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2610.08004 |