Regional Innovation and Cluster Policies in the New and Old Economy

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology is the most important industry in terms of innovativeness in the USA and Europe. For the creation and diffusion of knowledge, regional clusters are very important—the selected clusters considered here concern seven regions from six EU countries. The network indicators considered are based on patent applications and EU Patent data; it is shown that the regional dynamics in the Netherlands, Sweden, and Germany are particularly strong. Key policy conclusions are drawn both for the EU and the broader international cluster policy debate.