Open innovation in science parks: The role of public policies

Abstract

In this study, we evaluate how science parks (SPs) promote open innovation (OI) and the role played by public policies (PPs) in this process. To perform this analysis, we introduce an initial framework based on three dimensions: the launching of SPs, the role of SPs in promoting OI, and the role of SPs as PP vectors for promoting OI. Following a qualitative study based on visits, archival analysis and interviews with SP professionals located in Brazil and Portugal, we may report that SPs promote OI by spontaneous mechanisms, deliberate actions, and as PP vectors. Furthermore, PPs promote OI in SPs both directly and indirectly. In our comparative analysis, we take into consideration the differences between the two countries. We also introduce a framework that integrates PPs, OI and SPs. As a practical implication, our framework serves to enact better PPs for SPs and thereby promoting more efficient OI.