Challenges in knowledge sharing for innovation in cross-border context

Abstract

Knowledge sharing and knowledge transfer are keywords in cross-border cooperation for competitiveness. Research on cross-border cooperation has so far focused on peripheral border areas and topics covering cultural-ethnic contacts, social and political problems. The aim of this article is to analyse the challenges in knowledge sharing processes regarding innovation-related cooperation for competitiveness in the Helsinki-Tallinn capital regions. The challenges are analysed in the context of three inter-linked theoretical concepts: knowledge-management process, knowledge sharing and transfer. The empirical study investigates barriers in cross-border knowledge sharing processes by researching the policy documents related to knowledge-based development and innovation processes and carrying out elite interviews with the region’s stakeholders. The novelty lies in the analysis of knowledge sharing processes between the public, private and academic stakeholders. The outcomes prove that mutual knowledge of the neighbouring capital region and its opportunities, barriers and potentials is necessary for planning successful cross-border innovation-related policies.