Innovative Initiatives Research Articles

Effect of green trade barriers on export enterprise green technological innovation from the perspective of the low-carbon city pilot policy

The low-carbon city pilot policy (LCCPP) is an important part of achieving “dual carbon” goals and promoting green technology innovation (GTI) in Chinese export enterprises. This study integrates Green Technical Barriers to Trade (GTBTs), LCCPP, and the GTI of exporting enterprises into a unified framework based on data from A-share market Chinese non-financial export enterprises from 2007 to 2021 and discusses how export enterprises should optimize green innovation resource structure with support from LCCPP to facilitate enterprise GTI when facing GTBTs. Several findings are uncovered: (1) GTBTs have a significant negative impact on the GTI of Chinese export enterprises, and the LCCPP significantly mitigates the negative impact of GTBTs on export enterprises’ GTI. (2) After distinguishing the heterogeneous characteristics of export enterprises, the moderating effect of the LCCPP becomes even more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises, general trade enterprises, and enterprises whose export destinations are high-income countries. (3) Further exploration of the moderating effect of the LCCPP with different policy instruments and intensities is needed. We found the best moderating effect on export enterprises’ GTI under high policy intensity, and only market-based policy instruments had a significant moderating effect. These findings provide direction for policymakers expanding the pilot scope of low-carbon cities as well as theoretical support for realizing foreign trade growth for sustainable development.

The Impact of National Big Data Pilot Zones on the Persistence of Green Innovation: A Moderating Perspective Based on Green Finance

Enhancing the persistence of corporate green innovation is crucial for promoting sustainable societal development. As big data technologies and related policies advance, digitalization emerges as an effective enabler of green innovation in enterprises. This study, grounded in resource-based theory and corporate ecology theory, examines the impact of national-level big data pilot zone reforms on the persistence of corporate green innovation, utilizing data from China’s A-share-listed companies from 2011 to 2021. It also explores the moderating effect of green finance development. Empirical results indicate that (1) the implementation of national-level big data pilot zones positively influences the persistence of green innovation, with robustness and endogeneity tests confirming these findings. (2) The development of regional green finance positively moderates this relationship. (3) A mediation analysis reveals that national-level big data policies enhance innovation persistence by alleviating financing constraints, promoting talent aggregation, and facilitating industrial upgrading. (4) The heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive impact of these reforms is more pronounced in non-state-owned, non-heavy polluting firms, those receiving high subsidies, and in regions with stringent environmental regulations. This study offers a novel theoretical perspective on and empirical evidence for digital transformation from the angle of national policy, supporting societal green development and contributing to policy enhancement aimed at achieving sustainable growth.

NAKHE Leadership Mentor Program: An Opportunity for Inter-Institutional Exchange in Kinesiology

ABSTRACT College leadership in the 21st century is incredibly difficult, and leadership in Kinesiology can be rather complex in some departments. Mentoring is an important part of success in any leadership role, and individuals who receive mentoring typically outperform those who do not receive it. The National Association of Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAKHE) has an innovative and impactful initiative in place that focuses on mentoring for success in academic leadership: the Leadership Mentor Program. The Leadership Mentor Program is designed to build inter-institutional mentoring and networking between university Kinesiology departments and to increase aspiring administrator’s understanding of the job requirements of a Kinesiology administrator. Given the challenging environment in higher education today and the need to continue to examine exemplary models of leadership mentoring, the purpose of this paper is to: (a) outline contemporary challenges in academic leadership in general and Kinesiology specifically; (b) discuss some of the types and benefits of mentoring, with a focus on inter-institutional mentoring, (c) describe our experiences with the NAKHE Leadership Mentor Program from the perspective of the mentor and mentee; and (d) recommend possible future experiences for this program so as to guide individuals who are interested in pursuing this opportunity.

Solihull Approach training in undergraduate midwifery education: a pilot study

Background/Aims To date, Solihull training for midwives in Northern Ireland has been facilitated as continuing professional development; however, incorporating Solihull Approach Antenatal Foundation Training in undergraduate midwifery education has been recommended. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the provision of this training for undergraduate midwifery students. Methods This mixed-method evaluation study used pre- and post-test questionnaires with a purposive sample of 24 final year midwifery students. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics with thematic analysis of free text comments. Results Four themes emerged: perceived benefits in clinical practice; increased knowledge and confidence; increased recognition of the public health role of the midwife; and integration and timing of the training. Conclusions The innovative initiative was positively evaluated and considered an enhancement to current education provision. However, the initiative would have been welcomed earlier in the education programme. Implications for practice Solihull Approach training will be provided at undergraduate level and introduced earlier in the programme, with the subsequent potential to incrementally build on this foundation and include further tiers of training. The impact of students' application of the Solihull Approach in clinical practice warrants further investigation.

Management myopia and corporate innovation in China: Focus on the moderating role of equity incentives

This study selected a sample of A-listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2010 to 2022 to examine the relationship between management myopia and corporate innovation. The findings are as follows. First, management myopia has an inhibiting effect on corporate innovation, whereas market competition significantly enhances such innovation. Second, equity incentives can alleviate the inhibiting effect of management myopia on corporate innovation by motivating managers to focus more on long-term development and innovation investments. Third, market competition has different impacts on innovation of companies with different levels of ownership. In this regard, its impact on companies with high equity concentration is more significant. Finally, market competition has different impacts on the innovation of state-owned and private enterprises, with a more significant impact on the latter.

Government Subsidies, Market Competition and Firms' Technological Innovation Efficiency

Based on the classification of Chinese listed companies, this paper selects the financial statement data of Chinese listed companies from 2008 to 2022 to conduct an empirical study, and the empirical results confirm that Government subsidies can promote enterprises to enhance the efficiency of technological innovation; Market competition can encourage enterprises to enhance the efficiency of technological innovation and The impact of government subsidies on the efficiency of technological innovation of non-state enterprises is more significant, while other information remains unchanged. The impact of government subsidies on the technological innovation efficiency of non-state-owned enterprises is more significant. Through empirical research, this paper understands the impact of government subsidies and market competition on the technological innovation efficiency of enterprises, which is conducive to providing a reference for the government to formulate enterprise subsidy policies.

Does enterprise digital transformation contribute to green innovation? Micro-level evidence from China

The synergy of digitalization and greening has emerged as a prominent means to achieve the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality”. Given its significant contribution to carbon emissions, the impact of digital transformation on green innovation in manufacturing enterprises remains a longstanding research hotspot. Therefore, based on the data from China A-share listed manufacturing companies spanning from 2007 to 2022, this paper empirically analyzes the influence and mechanism of digital transformation on green innovation. Our findings reveal that digital transformation can significantly promote green innovation in manufacturing enterprises, with a particularly pronounced effect on substantive green innovation. These conclusions withstand rigorous robustness tests. Mechanism analysis shows that digital transformation can facilitate green innovation by improving internal control quality and fostering industry-university-research cooperation. Moreover, our moderation analysis reveals that both equity incentives and compensation incentives strengthen the positive relationship between digital transformation and green innovation in manufacturing enterprises. Heterogeneity analysis proves that digital transformation exerts a more pronounced impact on green innovation of state-owned manufacturing enterprises, non-heavily polluted manufacturing enterprises, and enterprises located in regions with strong intellectual property protection. Furthermore, the transformation of digital underlying technologies is more conducive to fostering green innovation compared to practical application transformation. Subsequent investigation into the economic and social effects of green innovation indicates that it effectively reduces pollution emissions from manufacturing enterprises without compromising their development. Additionally, the emission reduction and income-generating effect resulting from digital transformation primarily manifest through substantive green innovation. This research expands upon the theory regarding the impact of digital transformation on green innovation in micro-manufacturing enterprises, providing empirical support for facilitating low-carbon transformations among manufacturing enterprises under the goal of “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality”.

Unlocking Enterprise Innovation: The Impact of Big Data Analytics and External Network Relationships

Abstract. Innovation drives modern industry and enhances enterprise competitiveness. Despite China's progress, evident by its 14th position in the Global Innovation Index 2020, a gap remains compared to Western developed nations. Enterprises are key to national innovation, especially in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Big data presents new opportunities and challenges for innovation. This study explores how enterprises can leverage big data to improve innovation outcomes, identifying factors that influence this process. Grounded in resource-based and social network theories, the research employs questionnaires to assess big data analytic capabilities, external network relationships, and innovation performance. Using hierarchical regression analysis and reliability tests, findings reveal that foundational and management capabilities of big data significantly impact innovation, while technical capabilities do not. External network relationships partially mediate this effect. The results offer insights for managers on utilizing big data and strengthening external ties to drive innovation and competitive advantage.

Distribution of Enterprises Innovation Development Effects among CEE Member States

Distribution of Enterprises Innovation Development Effects among CEE Member States

Research on the Impact Exerted by Green Innovation Corporations’ Internationalization Depth on Innovation Performance and Sustainability—An Empirical Analysis Based on Data from China’s Specialized, Fine, Special, and Innovative Enterprises

Research on the Impact Exerted by Green Innovation Corporations’ Internationalization Depth on Innovation Performance and Sustainability—An Empirical Analysis Based on Data from China’s Specialized, Fine, Special, and Innovative Enterprises

Second-year success: offering differentiated support to high achieving students

Transition to university has long been identified as a key issue for institutions, however, much of the research focuses on the transition from level 3 to University and progression into employment. What is less commonly addressed, is the transition through university, helping students to understand and navigate the different challenges, expectations, and opportunities associated with starting levels 5 and 6 (Hill and Tinker, 2018; Gahagan and Hunter, 2006). Additionally, there is often a focus on provision for learners who are struggling academically and much less consideration for those who are doing well and achieving high marks. Informed by the University of Surrey’s STARS programme, we, in collaboration with students, worked to identify issues and challenges faced by high achieving students when they entered their second year. Along with further work related opportunities, a multi-disciplinary network for high achieving students was identified as a useful approach. We are looking to the hive mind of ALDCon24 for practical examples of how student-led academic networks and other innovative initiatives can enhance transition through university for high-achieving students. (How) Does your institution/LD team support high achievers? (How) Should we be offering differentiated support? Can you share examples of any initiatives that may support this project?

Decolonizing Academic Funding: An Evaluation of an Indigenous Collaborative Funding Initiative

In 2020 an innovative Indigenous community-led internal funding initiative was undertaken at a major university in Canada, followed in 2022 by a qualitative study of its inaugural round. This funding initiative is unique in that each research project was first identified by an Indigenous community/organization through a Canada-wide outreach process. The outreach process involved reaching out to over 700 Indigenous communities and organizations, via email or telephone, to ask if they would be interested in participating in a funded research project they identified as important and beneficial. The role of the university academic research partners was that of mentor rather than principal investigator for each project. Nine community-led research projects were funded and are currently underway. In this paper the authors outline the process of developing the initiative, its components, and findings from the study. Successes and challenges of the funding model are identified followed by a discussion of emergent themes. One of the key themes that emerged is that although there are aspects of this initiative that met its intended goals, it highlights a barrier in meeting one of the objectives, contributing to Indigenous research governance and self-determination.

SCIENTIFIC AND METHODOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONCEPT OF ENSURING SOCIO-ECONOMIC SECURITY OF ENTERPRISES IN THE CONDITIONS OF INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT

The article is aimed at defining and disclosing the scientific and methodological foundations for implementing the concept of ensuring socio-economic security of enterprises in the context of innovative development. The subject of the research in the article is the scientific and methodological principles of ensuring socio-economic security of enterprises in the context of innovative development. To achieve this goal, the following theoretical methods were used: analysis of the source base, comparison, systematisation and generalisation. The category of innovative enterprise development and socio-economic security has been identified. A number of indicators may be employed to evaluate the extent of social and economic security enjoyed by an enterprise. These may be classified according to their financial, social, innovative, operational or environmental impact. This paper considers the distinctive characteristics and principal consequences of the impact of innovative development on the social and economic security of enterprises. It has been established that the scientific and methodological principles of social and economic security comprise a set of theoretical and practical tools, methods and approaches that facilitate the identification, assessment and management of risks associated with innovative activities. In the context of outlining the scientific and methodological foundations, a number of principles for developing a system of socio-economic security for the enterprise were identified and expanded upon, and a list of scientific approaches for studying and providing socio-economic security for the enterprise was provided. The importance of a systemic approach in ensuring the socio-economic security of the enterprise in the context of its innovative development is demonstrated. It is determined that the methodological principles include the development and implementation of a system of indicators for assessing the level of socio-economic security, analysis of risks associated with innovation activities. The components of methodological support for the system of socio-economic security are proposed: monitoring, evaluation, risk management. The conclusions of the study are that the innovative development of enterprises determines the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of business. The socio-economic security of an enterprise can be defined as a dynamic state of stable functioning and development in the presence of external and internal threats. This encompasses the protection of the enterprise's economic interests, the assurance of financial stability, risk management, the optimisation of resource utilisation and the enhancement of production efficiency. The concept of the relevant scientific and methodological principles can be developed on the basis of the principal approaches to the study of the socio-economic security of the enterprise, as well as the principal principles of its development, which are presented in the article.

Can ESG ratings drive digital innovation in enterprises? Exploring Porter's hypothesis in the digital era

AbstractThe holistic reshaping and advancement of the global economy inherently demand the creation of synergies between digitization and environmentally sustainable development practices. This study pioneers an evaluation of the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings on corporate digital technology innovation, contrasting with existing literature. Using data from A‐share listed firms for 2011–2020, our research reveals that implementing ESG ratings stimulates corporate digital technology innovation across various dimensions, thereby confirming the presence of the Porter hypothesis in the digital era. Furthermore, these findings are substantiated through the utilization of various methodologies, such as synthetic difference‐in‐differences (SDID), multi‐period DID, event studies, and staggered DID. In addition, mechanism tests delve into the underlying channels through which ESG ratings stimulate corporate digital technology innovation, elucidating their ability to promote innovation through motivation stimulus and resource supply effects. Moreover, the heterogeneity analysis carried out in this study uncovers diverse effects on digital technology innovation stemming from factors such as firm characteristics, industry competitiveness, industry nature, regional intellectual property protection (IPP), and factor market development. Nevertheless, companies should refrain from blindly pursuing high ESG ratings to avoid overcorrecting because there is an inverse U‐shape relationship between ESG ratings and corporate digital technology innovation. These findings provide the theoretical basis and empirical evidence for the widescale utilization of ESG ratings. Thus, they offer useful guidance for executives and other policymakers aiming to foster a win–win scenario of digitization and green development.

Addressing Climate Change Through Social Innovation Initiatives

While social innovation has traditionally emphasised social sustainability, it also presents potential for the mitigation of climate change by influencing social practices. This study explores how social innovation initiatives address social practices to mitigate climate change. Our qualitative study in an affluent setting, a Swedish municipality with high emissions, led to the identification of four dimensions relevant for climate mitigation: SIIs’ social motives, inspiration of others, beneficiary participation, and use of artefacts. Social motives for climate relevant social ends focused on altering the meaning of practices while SIIs’ had social means focused on changing meaning, competences, and materials of emission-intensive practices.

Nexus between intellectual capital and innovation performance: the mediating role of firm’s attractiveness and knowledge sharing

Purpose Intellectual capital has recently gained significant attention for achieving a competitive advantage for firms. Accordingly, this study aims to examines the impact of intellectual capital on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) innovation performance. Additionally, it also examines the mediating role of firm’s attractiveness (FATR) and knowledge sharing (KS) in small enterprises of India’s National Capital Region (NCR). Design/methodology/approach Data was gathered from 395 owners and managers of the NCR region through a self-administered survey questionnaire. The author applied a “variance-based structural equation modeling” to examine the outcomes. Findings The outcomes exhibited that relational capital (RC) significantly influences the FATR, while human capital (HC) and structural capital (SC) insignificantly influences the FATR. Furthermore, HC, RC and SC substantially influence KS. Interestingly, the outcomes also reveal that a FATR and KS substantially influence innovation performance. Research limitations/implications This research provides valuable opportunities to expand the study of intellectual capital and innovation performance in SMEs across different countries, paving the way for future comparative analyses in diverse international contexts. Practical implications The results assist policymakers and practitioners in assessing an organization’s ability to transform data into intellectual capital within the context of “Industrial Revolution 4.0” to strengthen its sustainability and innovation performance. Originality/value The current paper delivers a more affluent and novel understanding of Indian SMEs by examining the interplay between intellectual capital and innovation performance mediating by a FATR and KS behavior. Furthermore, the proposed model has not been previously addressed in the academic literature, which signifies advancement in scientific knowledge.

Unleashing Innovation Potential: The Role of Human Capital and Digital Capability to Increase Firm Performance for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) in Lombok Island

Objective: The objective of this research is to examine how the human capital and digital capability of SMEs contribute to enhancing firm performance, with a particular focus on exploring the intervening role of innovation to achieve Sustainable Development goals (SDGs). Theoretical Framework: The research utilizes the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory and integrates human capital and internal capabilities (digital capabilities) resources to drive innovation and enhance firm performance within the SMEs context. Method: This research conducted by using a quantitative approach. A sample of 271 SMEs within the creative industry sector was utilized. The survey employed Likert scale. The model was assessed using Smart PLS 3.2.9 software. Results and Discussion: Variables of human capital and digital capability have an impact on innovation. Interestingly, digital capability alone does not directly impact firm’s performance. Instead, the presence of innovation serves as a mediator in the relationship between human capital, digital capability, and firm performance. This discovery indicates that digital capability can enhance firm performance when coupled with innovation initiatives. Research Implications: This study develops a theoretical framework related to firm resources, and SMEs can develop their human capital and digital capabilities to improve innovation and performance. Originality/Value: The theoretical framework of this study significantly influences the evolution of the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, especially on the influence of human capital resources, and the RBV framework is developed to elucidate the determinants of competitive advantage within the digital transformation landscape.

Navigating Green Innovation and Key Determinants of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Pakistan

Navigating Green Innovation and Key Determinants of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Pakistan

Reducing obesity and overweight: Subregional Policy Dialogues in the WHO European Region

Abstract In the WHO European Region, obesity and overweight stand as leading causes of disability and premature mortality. They contribute significantly to the burden of noncommunicable diseases, hindering efforts to achieve sustainable development goals related to health, including SDG goal 3.4, aiming to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third by 2030. Despite some policy successes such as sugary drinks taxes, restrictions on marketing unhealthy products to children, and physical activity promotion campaigns, no country has managed to halt the rising levels of obesity. Addressing obesity requires a comprehensive approach, and WHO endeavors to support countries in implementing a wide range of policy actions across various settings. The WHO Special Initiative for NCDs and Innovation has recently adopted a subregional approach to promote evidence-based, data-informed policy action. In June 2022, it organized a series of obesity dialogues, including sessions for the Western Balkans. This session will outline the methods and outcomes of these dialogues, including stakeholder engagement, presentation of the latest obesity data, evidence-based policy recommendations, and the process of prioritizing policy options with decision-makers. It will consider the lessons learned from this process, offering insights not only for the health agenda but also for addressing other complex public health, environmental, or social challenges, which require multisectoral collaboration and comprehensive, policy actions on many levels.

The association between the mental health disorders, substance abuse, and tobacco use with head & neck cancer stage at diagnosis.

Mental health disorders, substance abuse, and tobacco use are prevalent in the US population. However, the association between these conditions and head and neck cancer (HNC) stage is poorly understood. This research aims to uncover the relationship between pre-existing mental health disorders, substance abuse, and tobacco use and HNC stage at diagnosis in patients receiving care in an integrated, public safety-net healthcare system. This study was a secondary data analysis of linked hospital tumor registries and electronic health record (EHR) data. The study's primary independent variables were the comorbidities of mental health disorders, substance abuse, and tobacco use. The dependent variable was HNC stage at diagnosis, operationalized as early stage (i.e., stages I, II, and III) and advanced stage (stage IV, IVA, IVB, or IVC). The analysis included multivariable logistic regression adjusted for covariates of demographic variables, tumor anato RESULTS: The study population consisted of 357 patients with median age of 59years, and was primarily male (77%), diverse (Black or African American 41%; Hispanic 22%), and from neighborhoods with low income (median average annual household income $39,785). Patients with a history of mental health disorders with or without tobacco use had significantly lower odds of advanced stage HNC at diagnosis (adjusted OR = 0.35, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.17-0.72.) while patients with a history of substance abuse with or without tobacco use had significantly higher odds of advanced stage HNC at diagnosis (adjusted OR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.01-1.98) than patients with no history of mental health disorders, substance abuse, or tobacco use. The relationship between HNC stage at diagnosis and the comorbidities of mental health disorders, substance abuse, or tobacco differs depending on the type and co-occurrence of these comorbidities. These findings demonstrate the need for innovative care delivery models and education initiatives tailored to meet the needs of patients with mental health disorders, substance abuse, and tobacco use that facilitate early detection of HNC.