Third places as catalysts for technological innovation? Evidence from a grid cell level analysis of Nanjing, China*

Abstract

ABSTRACT While third places have often been conceived as key drivers for technological innovation, further empirical modelling is necessary to verify such relationship. Drawing upon a database on geocoded patents and third places in Nanjing, China, this paper investigates their relationship at a grid cell level. The results suggest that both quantity and diversity of third places could be associated with the process of technological innovation. Furthermore, the study finds an inverted U-curve relationship between the quantity of third places and technological innovation, indicating that too many third places may not be linked with higher technological innovation capacity. It also suggests that the number of business incubators may weaken the relationship between third places and technological innovation.