Issues and challenges arising from the application of innovation strategies based on the triple helix culture

Abstract

The incubation system is discussed in this paper as an aspect of the ‘triple helix’ model of innovation in which universities feature as organizational actors interfacing the public-private/voluntary sector nexus in the process of economic growth and development. Questions arise, however, as to how effectively the incubation, and indeed the triple helix, system can be implemented in developing countries as a strategy of innovation. The introduction of the incubation system in Algeria shows the difficulties involved in implementing innovation strategies based on the ‘triple helix’ model in developing countries in general. It also shows the vulnerability of the triple helix model itself when one of the key actors does not possess the capability and power to play its role effectively. The paper explores the main issues and challenges to be envisaged in the course of implementation of innovation strategies based on the ‘triple helix’ culture. It argues that policy in developing countries like Algeria should seek to promote learning and innovation through an effective system of interactions between and within the main components of the triple helix model, namely government, university and industry.