This paper is based on an extensive case-study for the Eastern part of the Netherlands, which addresses the innovation policies of the provinces of Gelderland and Overijssel. The research was conducted by the consultancy organization ScienceWorks (The Hague). Various regional experts are thanked for their support in carrying out this research. We wish to thank in particular André Oosterlinck (Leuven) and Frank Zwetsloot (Science Alliance, The Hague).
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From islands of innovation to creative hotspots†
Article first published online: 29 JUN 2011
DOI: 10.1111/j.1757-7802.2011.01035.x
© 2011 the author(s). Regional Science Policy and Practice © 2011 RSAI
Issue
Regional Science Policy & Practice
Special Issue: Innovation and creativity as the core of regional and local development policy
Volume 3, Issue 3, pages 145–161, August 2011
Additional Information
How to Cite
Kourtit, K., Nijkamp, P., Lowik, S., van Vught, F. and Vulto, P. (2011), From islands of innovation to creative hotspots. Regional Sci Policy & Practice, 3: 145–161. doi: 10.1111/j.1757-7802.2011.01035.x
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Publication History
- Issue published online: 8 AUG 2011
- Article first published online: 29 JUN 2011
- Received: 13 October 2010 / Accepted: 2 February 2011
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Keywords:
- L22;
- O31;
- Q55;
- R11;
- R12;
- R58;
- C38
- Regional innovation;
- clusters;
- technopolicy network model;
- creative hotspots;
- islands of innovation;
- SWOT analysis
Abstract
Key innovation areas are a source of policy and research interest in many countries. In this paper the concept of ‘creative hotspot’ is introduced as a policy vehicle to support spatial synergy strategies in innovation. The paper provides a review of experiences and findings from a regional innovation performance assessment in the hotspot that is located in the Eastern part of the Netherlands. Its methodology is based on the technopolicy network (TPN) model. The study compares the (potential) performance of that hotspot with three other hotspot regions. Various findings are briefly summarized in the context of a systematic ‘creative hotspot’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis. The results from this SWOT approach are then used to provide an input for a systematic evaluation of new innovation policy in the East Netherlands and to identify future challenges and opportunities for regional innovation policy.
Resumen. Las áreas de innovación claves son una fuente de interés político y de investigación en muchos países. En este artículo se presenta el concepto de “foco creativo”, o hotspot, como un instrumento político para apoyar estrategias acerca de sinergias espaciales para la innovación. El artículo incluye una revisión de las experiencias y resultados de una evaluación del desempeño en la innovación regional en el foco localizado en la zona oriental de los Países Bajos. Su metodología está basada en el modelo de red tecnopolítica (TPN, siglas en inglés). El estudio compara el desempeño (potencial) de dicho foco con el de otros tres focos regionales. Se resumen brevemente los resultados dentro del contexto de un análisis FODA sistemático de las fortalezas, oportunidades, debilidades y amenazas de un “foco creativo”. Los resultados de este enfoque FODA se utilizan a su vez como insumo para una evaluación sistemática de nuevas políticas de innovación en los Países Bajos Orientales e identificar retos y oportunidades en el futuro para las políticas de innovación regional.
