A Model for Developing Urban Innovation Clusters

Abstract

This paper seeks to build on previous work conducted by Porter, Devol, Florida, Bahrami and Evans, Wennberg and Lindqvist, and others contained in the literature, to construct a new way of looking at innovation cluster development. It seeks to describe the key elements contained in the research that serve as building blocks for innovation clustering, adding analysis dimensions that aim to further illuminate understanding of this process. It compares those building block characteristics to the innovation topography of U.S. urban centers, to shed light on a new framework through which urban innovation cluster formation can be considered. It identifies three building block analysis categories: 1) Technological Capability and Capacity (TCC); 2) Intellectual Propulsion Capacity (IPC); and 3) Structural Creative Inspiration (SCI). These three pillars form the architecture for creation of a Strategic Innovation Network (SIN), upon which clustering can be systematically analysed and built. The purpose of the SIN is to optimally organize and connect all available resources that include physical, financial, and human, such that innovation clustering is inspired, encouraged, nurtured, and ultimately constructed as fully functioning socio-economic organisms that provide both local and regional benefits. It is designed to aid both private enterprise and public policy leaders in their strategic planning considerations, and to enhance urban economic development opportunities.