Innovation ecosystems function are complex networks facilitating knowledge flow and creative collaboration across different actors, including individuals and organizations. These ecosystems rely on social and societal connections that shape the structure of creative interactions and influence the identification of technological and science-based innovation opportunities. Understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering effective collaboration and sustaining long-term innovation networks.
The CORE project examines how innovation ecosystems contribute to developing micro-level social capabilities and collaborative practices. The study analyzes how social relationships influence knowledge flow and creativity within European Research Infrastructure (ERI) innovation ecosystems. This research was structured around three key inquiries related to the micro-foundations of such ecosystems.
The first aspect of the research focused on how actors within innovation ecosystems identify and utilize social and societal connections in the pursuit of innovation. A particular emphasis was placed on the impact of participation in the ATTRACT Academy. The second inquiry examined the structure of knowledge flow and creative interactions among actors in these social networks, seeking to understand how dispersed and democratic networked innovation evolves. The third phase yielded an open-access toolkit and guidelines for implementing an iterated version of the interventions.
The research team conducted 36 in-depth interviews and two surveys with key stakeholders, including R&D&I innovators, students, and academic staff, to gather insights on creativity patterns, innovation strategies, and knowledge transfer challenges. Their findings revealed different perceptions of collaboration opportunities based on participants’ roles and experiences. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of proximity in fostering new collaborations and explores the tensions between structured, consortium-based networks and the organic knowledge flow in self-orchestrating ecosystems.
“Understanding the way innovation ecosystems function can help support ongoing development processes and give us insight into how these ecosystems form. By exploring these ecosystems, innovators can strategically engage key players, anticipate challenges, and build stronger support for transformative solutions,
mentioned Vikki Eriksson, Head of Research at Aalto Design Factory and coordinator of CORE.
The insights of the CORE project, coordinated by Aalto University in collaboration with DELFT University of Technology, could guide future research and practical applications, focusing on facilitating and supporting R&D&I projects in their collaborative efforts beyond traditional consortia to create systemic value. Further studies could also explore stakeholder relationships, creativity patterns, and social networks at different levels of granularity to support and expand upon the initial findings.
Here you can watch a video of the CORE project:
For additional information about the project, visit here.
Innovation ecosystems function are complex networks facilitating knowledge flow and creative collaboration across different actors, including individuals and organizations. These ecosystems rely on social and societal connections that shape the structure of creative interactions and influence the identification of technological and science-based innovation opportunities. Understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering effective collaboration and sustaining […]
