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on Small Business Management |
| 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: | 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: | 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: | 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: | 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: | 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: | Stefan Schneck |
| Abstract: | This exploratory study examines the effects of parental socialization and parental role models at ages 7 to 10 on the entrepreneurial intentions of their children in adolescence. Analysis of German household data and more than 1, 400 observations shows a moderation effect between parental role models and socialization. An adolescent’s willingness to become self-employed in the future is influenced by parental role models and moderated by parental child-rearing practices related to risk-taking during childhood. While child-rearing practices not focused on risk-avoidance reinforce the parental role model effect and increase an adolescent’s intentions to become self-employed, parental child-rearing practices geared toward risk aversion nullify any positive effects of having self-employed parents as role models. Parental socialization during childhood thus casts a long-term shadow and may explain why some children with self-employed parents have as little intention of becoming self-employed as children of employees. Early parental socialization practices may, thus, contribute to explaining the lack of willing entrepreneurs and family business successors. |
| Keywords: | entrepreneurial intentions; life course theory; role model; self-employment; socialization |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:diw:diwsop:diw_sp1233 |
| 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: | 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 |
| By: | Amoa-Gyarteng, Karikari |
| Abstract: | Why does globalization reduce unemployment in some countries but not others? This policy synthesis addresses a puzzle: global market integration helps the UK maintain 4.5% unemployment while South Africa faces 33% joblessness despite similar openness to trade. Drawing on recent comparative research, this paper argues that the key difference lies not in the degree of openness, but in whether entrepreneurial ecosystems enable early-stage ventures to scale into stable, job-creating firms. In the United Kingdom, accessible finance, efficient regulation, and reliable infrastructure allow startups to expand and hire. In South Africa, funding shortages, regulatory hurdles, and infrastructure breakdowns trap most startups in early stages, limiting employment gains from globalization to large incumbents. Based on this analysis, the paper proposes a simple but practical, sequenced policy framework organized around four pillars: finance (co-investment funds, credit guarantees), regulation (digital one-stop shops, startup legal designation), infrastructure (reliable power, broadband), and skills/ networks (targeted training, accelerator support). Reforms in Rwanda, Morocco, Tunisia, and India demonstrate that rapid progress is feasible when policymakers focus on removing binding constraints. The core message for emerging economy policymakers: globalization creates opportunities, but jobs grow only when ecosystem conditions enable local startups to capture them. |
| Keywords: | Entrepreneurial Ecosystems, Globalization, Job Creation, Entrepreneurship Policy, Policy Recommendations |
| JEL: | O1 O10 O2 |
| Date: | 2025–11–04 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:126735 |
| By: | Dror Shvadron |
| Abstract: | Why do firms produce scientific research and make it available to the public, including their rivals? Prior literature has emphasized the tension between imitation risks from disclosure and scientists' preferences for publication. This study examines an additional managerial consideration: the value of follow-on research conducted by external scientists building upon firms' publications. Using data on U.S. public firms' scientific publications from 1990 to 2012, and a novel instrumental variable based on quasi-random journal issue assignment, I find that accumulation of follow-on research is associated with increased subsequent scientific investments, improved patenting outcomes, and greater employee retention by the originating firms. Benefits are more pronounced for firms with complementary assets and those operating in emerging research fields. Beyond serving as direct input into innovation, follow-on research provides external validation of internal research programs, helping managers allocate resources under conditions of scientific uncertainty. These findings demonstrate that firms benefit when their scientific disclosures inspire follow-on research by the broader scientific community. |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2512.04400 |
| By: | Calza Elisa (European Commission - JRC); Napolitano Lorenzo (European Commission - JRC); Soguero Escuer Jorge (European Commission - JRC); De Prato Giuditta (European Commission - JRC); Tuebke Alexander (European Commission - JRC); Tuebke Alexander (European Commission - JRC) |
| Abstract: | We analyse the advanced manufacturing (AM) industrial landscape via the Digital Techno-Eco-nomic ecoSystem (DGTES) and position the EU Industrial R&D Investment Scoreboard firms. Over 70% of global AM firms are concentrated in China (45%), the US (17%), and Europe (10%), pointing to a clear regional dominance in the DGTES AM ecosystem. The EU is still well positioned relative to its number of activities in critical technologies for the AM industry, like´3D Printing´. The EU and Japan have higher R&D investment and patent filings of Scoreboard firms compared to the broader DGTES AM ecosystem (e.g., 16% vs. 10% in the EU) making them candidates for driving the uptake of AM technologies. However, China leads in overall AM ecosystem patent activity. ´3D printing´ dominates the AM ecosystem (27%), but Scoreboard firms excel in ´Power Electronics´ (35% vs. 20%). The manufacturing sector leads in both (47% overall, 68% for Scoreboard firms), with significant presence in ´ICT´ and ´professional services´. |
| Date: | 2025–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc142720 |
| By: | Jamal, Haroon |
| Abstract: | Total Factor Productivity (TFP) represents the efficiency with which capital and labor inputs are utilized in the production process. It captures the impact of elements beyond mere increases in the quantity of inputs and represents factors such as technological progress, innovation, improvements in organizational efficiency and institutional quality. This study estimates TFP of manufacturing firms in Pakistan using latest available firm level data collected and compiled for the World Bank Enterprise Survey (WBES) of 2022. Data of the WBES of 2007 is also employed to estimate comparative TFP magnitudes. The research also evaluates the impact of few organizational characteristics of firms on the current level of TFP for the year 2022. The study indicates low level of TFP with the deteriorating trend. These results are consistent with the findings of earlier research on TFP in the context of Pakistan. This study estimates close to 9 percent decline in the magnitude of TFP during the period of 2007 and 2022. However, the extent of deterioration varies across provinces and across industrial sectors. The largest decline (25 percent) in TFP magnitude is estimated in Baluchistan province, followed by KPK (10%). In terms of industrial sectors, the notable sectors where TFP magnitude has declined are Food (43%) and Leather and Leather product (45%). In contrast, sectors in which TFP has improved during 2007-2022 include; Machinery and Equipment (56%), Chemical and Chemical Products (47%) and Wearing Apparels (27%). The econometrical results related with the determinants of productivity suggest that factors which enhance the firms’ performance and level of productivity include; use of information and communication technology, formal training programs for employees, access to international market, proportion of skilled production workers and the presence of competitive market environment. The TFP literature suggests that to increase TFP in Pakistani manufacturing firms, a multifaceted approach focused on improving efficiency, technology, human capital, and the overall business environment is required. |
| Keywords: | TFP; Manufacturing firms; Pakistan |
| JEL: | D24 L60 |
| Date: | 2025–11–06 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:126733 |
| By: | Florian Leon (FERDI - Fondation pour les Etudes et Recherches sur le Développement International, CERDI - Centre d'Études et de Recherches sur le Développement International - IRD - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - UCA - Université Clermont Auvergne) |
| Abstract: | Access to finance remains a major obstacle for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, limiting their growth and job creation. To address this, programs have been implemented to encourage banks to increase their credit supply to SMEs. However, evaluations of the impact of these programs are scarce. Our study examines this issue, utilizing a novel database that compiles programs financed by development finance institutions in Africa. The results reveal an unexpected effect: supported banks experienced an 8% reduction in their lending activity. |
| Abstract: | L'accès au financement reste un obstacle majeur pour les petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) en Afrique, limitant leur croissance et la création d'emplois. Pour remédier à cela, des programmes ont été mis en place pour inciter les banques à augmenter leur offre de crédit aux PME. Cependant, les évaluations de l'impact de ces programmes sont rares. Notre étude examine cette question en se basant sur les programmes proposés par les institutions financières de développement, révélant un effet inattendu : une réduction de 8 % de l'activité de prêt des banques soutenues. |
| Keywords: | Banks, Africa, Private Sector Support, Development Finance Institutions, Blended Finance, Banques, Afrique, Soutien au secteur privé, Institutions financières de développement, Financement mixte |
| Date: | 2025–05–28 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05385198 |
| By: | Neil Ferguson; Tatiana Orozco García |
| Abstract: | An increasing proportion of the world’s poor live in fragile states, and efforts to build economic and social stability increasingly focus on those settings. Fragility harms the political and economic ecosystem, as well as individual endowments. Interventions that only focus on overcoming individual constraints might be insufficient. Support for entrepreneurs to overcome skills or credit constraints might have limited impacts if local economies cannot sustain the businesses they start, limiting impact on economic and social stability. This paper tests the effect of SME support in the context of localized development, which aims to develop local economies by boosting individual entrepreneurship capacity in demand-driven growth sectors. The intervention increased business startup and registration, but the relative income of beneficiaries declined. Moreover, for beneficiaries with positive outcomes, there are associated impacts on social outcomes, including reduced tolerance of violence, increased trust, and increased social participation. |
| Keywords: | economic development, entrepreneurship, fragility, jobs programmes, poverty, social stability |
| JEL: | D74 J24 L26 O12 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hic:wpaper:447 |
| By: | Resendiz, Jose L.; Ranger, Nicola; Mahul, Olivier |
| Abstract: | Sustainability-linked finance (SLF) offers a promising pathway to close the corporate adaptation finance gap by linking borrowing costs to climate-resilience performance. However, current instruments fall short of their potential. Analysing 701 SLF instruments issued by 395 firms across real estate, electric utilities, and agrifood, we compare embedded key performance indicators (KPIs) with those disclosed in sustainability reports. Across adaptation, resilience, and combined MAR (mitigation–adaptation–resilience) themes, firms report 2, 619 relevant KPIs, yet only 511 (19.5%) are embedded in financial contracts—leaving 80.5% unenforced. This fourfold gap highlights a significant opportunity to expand SLF coverage using metrics firms already track. The bottleneck is not data availability but a lack of standardised, verifiable A&R benchmarks. We propose a suite of process-based KPIs and contractual mechanisms to bridge this gap, enabling SLF to evolve into a credible, scalable tool for embedding climate resilience into corporate strategy and unlocking private capital for adaptation. |
| JEL: | Q56 Q54 G32 O32 |
| Date: | 2025–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ehl:lserod:130463 |
| 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: | Sébastien Bourdin (Métis Lab EM Normandie - EM Normandie - École de Management de Normandie = EM Normandie Business School); Arsène Perrot (GSSI - Gran Sasso Science Institute) |
| Abstract: | This study examines the persistence of CO 2 emissions across European regions through the analytical lenses of path dependence and socio-technical lock-ins. It introduces the concept of the "regional carbon trap" to account for enduring emission patterns. Drawing on data for EU NUTS-2 regions from 1990 to 2022, the analysis identifies key factors that either constrain or enable progress towards a low-carbon transition. The study proposes a novel typology distinguishing four regional trajectories: Virtuous Loop, Carbon-Intensive Trap, High-Emission Trap and Evolution Trap. The results underscore the pivotal influence of industrial specialisation, governance quality and economic diversification in shaping emission trajectories. Based on these findings, the paper formulates policy recommendations focused on targeted exnovation, economic diversification and technological leapfrogging. These recommendations stress the importance of adopting place-sensitive strategies to meet the European Union's decarbonisation objectives. |
| Keywords: | Regional disparities, Carbon lock-in, Transition, Carbon emissions, Development trap, Regional path dependence |
| Date: | 2025–11–21 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05376844 |
| By: | Park, Timothy A.; Holmes, Marionette |
| Keywords: | Community/Rural/Urban Development, Productivity Analysis, Agribusiness |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:aaea24:343903 |
| 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: | Wiatt, Renee D. |
| Abstract: | Workforce development challenges are reshaping rural businesses and the communities they serve. Small businesses are vital anchors in rural areas, providing not only essential products and services but also serving as community gathering places that foster connection and local vitality. This article examines workforce statistics for rural and urban small businesses in the North Central Region (NCR) using data from the NCR-Stat: Small Business Survey (Wiatt et al., 2024). |
| Keywords: | Community/Rural/Urban Development |
| Date: | 2025–12–16 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:ncrcrd:383710 |
| By: | Serrano-Domingo, Guadalupe (Department of Economic Analysis, Faculty of Economics, University of Valencia, Avda dels Tarongers, s/n, Campus dels Tarongers, E-46022 Valencia, Spain.); Requena-Silvente, Francisco (Department of Applied Economics II, Faculty of Economics, University of Valencia, Avda dels Tarongers, s/n, Campus dels Tarongers, E-46022 Valencia, Spain.); María A. Martín-Montaner, Joan (Institute of International Economics, University Jaume I of Castellón, Castellón, Spain.); Raúl Mínguez (Camara de Comercio de España and Universidad Nebrija de Madrid, Spain.) |
| Abstract: | We use a dose-response function to investigate how the level of imports of intermediate inputs affects the level of exports using the universe of Spanish two- way trading manufacturers in the year 2004. First, we find a positive but non- linear import-export nexus. Second, low levels of imports don’t significantly boost exports—but as import levels reach the median range, the positive impact becomes much more pronounced. Third, the impact varies by the level of income of the country-of-origin of imports; the larger effect on total exports is linked to imports coming mainly but not exclusively from high-income countries. Finally, higher imports from high-income countries lead firms to export more to these countries relative to low-income countries while the opposite is not observed. |
| Keywords: | Exports performance, Imports of intermediate inputs, Dose-Response function, Spanish firms |
| JEL: | F14 F23 L25 C14 |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:eec:wpaper:2516 |
| By: | Grassano Nicola; M'barek Robert (European Commission - JRC); Gonzales Hermoso Hugo |
| Abstract: | This report presents a patent-based indicator to measure the innovation output of the bioeconomy, which is a key driver for the European Union's transition to a sustainable and circular economy. The analysis covers the period 2008-2020 and provides insights into the trends and patterns of bioeconomy-related patenting activity in the EU. The results show that the share of bioeconomy patents in the EU patent portfolio is modest but significant, with a mixed growth trend over the observed period. The proposed indicator could be a useful tool for policymakers to monitor and promote the uptake of the bioeconomy in the EU. |
| Date: | 2025–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc144079 |
| By: | Mattia Guerini (Department of Economics and Management, University of Brescia, Italy.); Giovanni Marin (Dipartimento di Economia, Società , Politica, Università di Urbino Carlo Bo, Italy; SEEDS, Italy; FEEM,); Francesco Vona (Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy; FEEM;) |
| Abstract: | We study how monetary policy shapes firm level carbon emissions. Our identification strategy exploits the European Central Bank’s July 2012 move to the zero lower bound as a plausibly exogenous easing of credit supply, combined with rich administrative and survey data on French manufacturing firms from 2000–2019. Using a difference-in-differences design with debt-to-asset ratios as exposure, we find that financially constrained firms cut emissions by about 9.4% more than unconstrained ones. This effect primarily stems from improvements in energy efficiency, lower carbon intensity of energy, and general productivity improvements associated with capital deepening that outweighed modest scale effects. Small and medium firms drive these results, while large and EU ETS regulated firms show no significant response. On average, emissions fell by 3.3% per year, summing up to 5.3 million tonnes of ð ¶ð ‘‚2 saved. Despite the smaller marginal effects, total carbon savings due to the monetary easing are comparable to the savings from the EU ETS, highlighting the untargeted nature of the policy. |
| Keywords: | Financial constraints, credit supply, firm level carbon emissions, climate policies |
| JEL: | Q52 Q48 D22 |
| Date: | 2025–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:srt:wpaper:1525 |
| By: | Jinhu Li (Yale University); Andrew B. Bernard (Dartmouth College and NBER); Teresa C. Fort (Dartmouth College and NBER) |
| Abstract: | This paper studies the role of production location in firm export decisions. We document a set of new facts using a custom-built, geo-located dataset of firms, plants, and customs transactions in China. Exporter firms, defined by their first export transaction, are more likely to have plants in coastal locations at the time of their entry into exporting. They are also more likely to open new plants in coastal locations post-entry. We rationalize these facts in a model where a firmÕs production decisions are guided by location-specific export costs. Estimates of the structural model highlight the importance of lower fixed costs of exporting in coastal regions. A counterfactual exercise shows that a policy to equalize the fixed costs across coastal and non-coastal locations would lead to an increase in the number of exporters and aggregate exports, with gains accruing almost entirely to firms in non-coastal locations. |
| Date: | 2025–11–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cwl:cwldpp:2471r1 |
| By: | Katharina Ledebur (Supply Chain Intelligence Institute Austria); Ladislav Bartuska (Supply Chain Intelligence Institute Austria); Klaus Friesenbichler; Peter Klimek (Supply Chain Intelligence Institute Austria) |
| Abstract: | The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the electrification of powertrains, the rise of software-defined vehicles, and the adoption of circular economy concepts. These trends are increasingly blurring the boundaries between the automotive sector and other industries. The pace of adaptation to electrification varies considerably between regions and firms. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) production, where mechanical capabilities dominated, competitiveness in electric vehicle (EV) production increasingly depends on expertise in electronics, batteries, and software. This study investigates whether and how firms' ability to leverage cross-industry diversification contributes to their competitive advantage in this evolving landscape. We develop a country-level product space covering all industries, and an industry-specific product space covering over 900 automotive components. This allows us to identify clusters of parts which are exported together, revealing shared manufacturing capabilities. Closeness centrality in the country-level product space, rather than simple proximity, is a strong predictor of where new comparative advantages are likely to emerge. First, we examine this relationship across all industrial sectors to establish general patterns of path dependency, diversification and capability formation. Then, we focus specifically on the electric vehicle (EV) transition. It is argued that new strengths in vehicles and aluminum products in the EU will generate 5 and 4.6 times more EV-specific strengths, respectively, than other EV-relevant sectors over the next decade. In contrast, these sectors are expected to generate only 1.6 and 4.5 new strengths, respectively, in already diversified China. A different pattern emerges when these country-level results are compared to the firm-level product space. Countries such as South Korea, China, the USA and Canada show the greatest potential for diversification into EV-related products. Established producers in the EU are likely to come under pressure. These findings suggest that the success of the automotive transformation will depend on the ability of regions to mobilize existing industrial capabilities, particularly in related sectors such as machinery and electronic equipment. |
| Keywords: | diversification, car industry, automotive, electric cars, supply chains, network, product space, regions, firms, transition, complexity |
| Date: | 2025–12–15 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wfo:wpaper:y:2025:i:717 |
| By: | Sebastien Bourdin (Métis Lab EM Normandie - EM Normandie - École de Management de Normandie = EM Normandie Business School); Nicolas Jacquet (Métis Lab EM Normandie - EM Normandie - École de Management de Normandie = EM Normandie Business School) |
| Abstract: | This article examines how European cities and regions engage with circular economy (CE) strategies through the lens of territorial intermediation. Based on the analysis of 54 strategic planning documents, it identifies a range of local rationales – predominantly environmental – supporting CE commitments. The findings reveal a selective and often downstream-oriented framing of CE priorities. Local authorities assume three main roles in structuring circular transitions: promoter, facilitator and enabler, each operationalised through distinct policy instruments. Rather than following a uniform model, CE strategies take different forms depending on local priorities, challenges and development goals. The article contributes to the literature by clarifying how territorial intermediation mediates ecological transitions at the local scale. |
| Keywords: | Place-based ecological transition, Content analysis, Territorial strategies, Territorial intermediation, Local authorities, Circular economy |
| Date: | 2025–10–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05376815 |