The triple helix system and regional entrepreneurship in China

Abstract

ABSTRACT The paper examines the influence of the Triple Helix system of university-industry-government collaboration on regional entrepreneurship in China. Utilizing proprietary survey data collected from industrial firms, academic institutions, and government agencies in five representative Chinese regions, the paper finds that interactions within the three spheres of the Triple Helix system in terms of trilateral collaboration, network relationship, and complementary synergies all have positive influences on regional entrepreneurship in China by shaping local entrepreneurial environment and fostering entrepreneurship activities. The paper also reveals significant regional differences in the functioning of the Triple Helix system. Specifically, the roles of trilateral collaboration and network relationship are more salient in developing regions, while complementary synergies are more effective in developed regions. This study contributes to the burgeoning literature on national and regional innovation systems by emphasizing the multifaceted effect of university-industry-government collaboration on promoting regional entrepreneurship. It also highlights the role of regional institutional context in affecting innovation and entrepreneurship processes.