Innovation Hubs Research Articles

Places and spaces of collaborative R&D and innovation: navigating the role of physical and virtual contexts

The context in which collaborative R&D and innovation activities take place is a critical driver of success and failure. However, innovation management research tends to often abstract the context away, leaving the crucial contingency factors unaddressed. This special issue explores multifaceted collaborative R&D and innovation contexts across physical and virtual domains. An array of ten articles dissect various contexts, including cross‐sector partnerships, innovation hubs, living labs, makerspaces, and virtual collaboration spaces and communities, highlighting their impact on innovation processes and outcomes. In this editorial, we develop a ‘Collaborative Innovation Space Matrix’ to firstly integrate the insights from the special issue focusing on collaboration dynamics and type of spaces and, secondly, to propose a call for action for innovation researchers to better understand the crucial role of context in collaborative R&D and innovation.

Accessing perinatal substance use disorder care in your local community: A case study of an innovative hub and spoke network in western North Carolina

IntroductionThe incidence of substance use disorders (SUD) in the general population and in the pregnant person population has risen over the last 20 years. Concurrently, both perinatal and SUD care in rural areas is laden with access barriers including but not limited to geographical distance from potential treatment and stigma. An integrated outpatient perinatal substance use disorder (PSUD) clinic in an urban area in western North Carolina (WNC) found that patients who traveled further for prenatal care were less likely to continue seeking care in the postpartum period. Acknowledging that the risk of overdose increases in the postpartum period, the PSUD clinic utilized a hub and spoke model to promote healthcare accessibility. MethodsThe clinic adapted the Vermont hub and spoke model and the CHARM (Children and Recovering Mothers) collaborative. The urban hub in WNC has now developed eight spokes in rural communities. The hub provides education and technical assistance to the rural spokes, and the two engage in bidirectional referral pathways. This manuscript details the model and analyzes the existing strengths and barriers at two spokes, a family medicine Federally Qualified Health Center and a hospital affiliated obstetrics and gynecology practice and analyzes their process of implementation of integrated outpatient perinatal substance use care. ResultsBoth spokes found coaching relationships and the sharing of resources such as clinical guidelines useful to begin prescribing buprenorphine for PSUD. Their context led one spoke to begin prescribing within one year while the other took two years. ConclusionComparing and contrasting these spokes serves to demonstrate that across many contexts, a hub and spoke model is a replicable intervention for rural perinatal substance use access to care barriers. Comparing the two spokes emphasizes the need for adaptation as well as standardization of the model to improve evidence-based PSUD care most effectively.

Research on Shenzhen's Innovation Capability under the New Development Pattern

This paper explored the motivation, disadvantages and ways for Shenzhen to enhance its innovation capabilities in the context of new development patterns and rapid urbanization. Anchored in the framework of China's new dual circulation policy, the paper examined the multifaceted motivations driving Shenzhen's pursuit of innovation excellence. The analysis underscored Shenzhen's unique advantages, including government policies, geographical positioning, and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, as catalysts for fostering innovation. However, it cautioned against the challenges posed by rising economic risks and inefficient resource allocation. With a focus on transparency, regional cooperation, talent cultivation, and the comprehensive application of digital technology, the paper proposed strategic measures to bolster Shenzhen's innovation ecosystem. By harnessing the democratizing potential of digital tools, fostering collaboration, nurturing talent, and embracing data-intensive resources, Shenzhen can fortify its position as a global innovation hub while navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

The Hubs of Transformation Dictated by the Innovation Wave: Boston as a Case Study

Cities have become nodes of global networks, standing at the intersection points of the flows of capital, goods, workers, businesses, and travelers, making them spots where innovation, progress and economic development occur. Design emerges as an essential feature in this process, which this manuscript defines as the ‘laboratorization of cities’, a cutting-edge urban development paradigm that emphasizes cities as dynamic laboratories for innovation and experimentation. This study explored the spatial hubs of transformation within the knowledge economy, providing an overview of the current models of innovation spaces before focusing on the innovation district of one of the cities that are riding the innovation wave, namely Boston, USA. Information was gathered from observations, exploratory interviews with key stakeholders, and on-desk data. The study has significant implications, spanning from informing global urban development strategies to impacting regional economic planning and national policies. It provides valuable insights into how design, innovation, and urban development are interconnected, potentially reshaping how cities and regions approach their growth in the current knowledge-driven era. Useful lessons can be drawn from the case study analysis, allowing to define valuable tools for policymakers, a forward-looking perspective on the future of the laboratorization of cities and the evolving role of design, providing a roadmap for cities aiming to position themselves as global innovation hubs.

The fifth music therapy session: Hindustani classical music and its therapeutic value

We hereby present a brief report on the fifth and final music therapy session in connection with our ongoing research project titled Hindustani Raga Analysis Using Statistical Musicology with Therapeutic Applications for Stress Management sponsored by IDEAS: Technology Innovation Hub @ Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. Details of the first four music therapy sessions have been published and the interested reader is referred to Chakraborty S et al.1–4

Queen Ndlovu: opening the throttle on her drone business

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, students will be able to evaluate the journey of launching a business in an emerging market context and judge how opportunities and challenges can be navigated to build sustainable enterprises; assess the relevance of individual attributes and process skills that are necessary for entrepreneurial agency to transform social structures through entrepreneurial action; formulate an argument highlighting the role of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in growing a competitive business in an emerging market context; make an informed decision and critique how accelerators and incubators affect the development of ideas and access to finance in South Africa; and propose various strategic options available for technology entrepreneurs, considering the challenges they face in emerging economies. Case overview/synopsis In April 2023, Queen Ndlovu, CEO and founder of QP Drone Tech, a provider of drone business solutions, was considering options to fulfil her original dream of manufacturing drones in South Africa. She had encountered obstacles to achieving the same in 2019, and had decided to focus on providing commercial drone consulting services. However, her dream had not extinguished, and in 2022, she decided to restart her efforts. She found practical support from The Innovation Hub, an incubator that was supporting her business, which enabled her to enhance the prototype of her drone. She then had to think about how she would manufacture drones locally by ensuring she had access to production infrastructure, funding, partners and customers. Would she be able to gain a competitive advantage that would differentiate her from competitors? Or should she reconsider whether she should be manufacturing in the first place, as there are risks and benefits for smaller businesses in this regard. Complexity academic level This case is intended for discussion in postgraduate diploma in business and Master of Business Administration courses. Supplementary material Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.

Policy Design for Extreme Poverty Alleviation in West Lombok Regency

This study aims to analyze the design of extreme poverty reduction policies in West Lombok District. The design of the policy refers to the substance/content of the policies developed for the reduction/prevention of extreme poverty used by the regions. A case study research approach is used to explore the design of extreme poverty alleviation policies. The West Lombok Regency government's policy on poverty alleviation contains various local government programs synergized in accelerating the acceleration of extreme poverty reduction. In addition, it is in the form of efforts to assist the poor for a movement that is actualized in bridging aid recipients to get out of poverty immediately. The construction of extreme poverty reduction policies in West Lombok Regency adopts the concept of an innovation hub to accelerate cross-government programs that target basic services (health and education) in interventions for individual/family change as well as increasing the business capacity of community groups.

A CONCEPTUAL MFARM BUSINESS MODEL: MOSQUE AS A SUSTAINABLE FARMING CENTRE, RESKILLING AND NURTURING B40 AS AGRO-PRENEURS

This business model paper explores the potential of utilising mosque space for farming with the aim of assisting low-income and B40 communities. The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual business model including a digital platform and application as well as to assess the feasibility of this concept and address the growing demand for locally grown and organic produce, while also providing an opportunity for the mosque to generate additional revenue streams. The paper outlines the methodology used, which is Design Thinking, by conducting literature review (LR), benchmarking and survey to further understand the problem that later helps in creating our own business case model (BMC) and Value Proposition Canvas (VPC). It also highlights the potential social and environmental benefits of this model, such as increased community engagement and the reduction of carbon footprints through localised food production. The proposed business model aims to create a new paradigm for sustainable food production, with mosques serving as community hubs for education, training, and innovation in the field of urban farming. The paper concludes by outlining the potential challenges and risks involved in this venture and proposes strategies to mitigate them. Ultimately, this business paper represents an exciting opportunity for mosques to become leaders in sustainable food production and community engagement. This conceptual business model would also provide educational opportunities for members of the community to learn about urban farming, nutrition, and healthy eating habits. By focusing on serving low-income and B40 communities, the business aims to address food insecurity and promote equitable access to healthy, locally grown produce. This would help to improve the overall health and well-being of the community, while also providing economic opportunities for low-income individuals to participate in the farming and distribution of produce.

Research on the Cultural Construction of Private University Laboratories Based on Cultural Education

University laboratories serve as crucial hubs for scientific and technological innovation and play a vital role in nurturing talents. As pivotal spaces for both teaching and scientific research, the development of laboratories necessitates not only investment in scientific research equipment and experimental facilities but also in cultural construction. This cultural aspect holds significant importance in promoting the comprehensive development of students and enhancing scientific research capabilities. This article concentrates on the strategies for cultivating laboratory culture in private universities, addressing six key dimensions: spiritual culture, institutional culture, scientific culture, innovation culture, safety culture, and shared culture.

“This Is Not What I Signed up for”: Sociotechnical Imaginaries, Expectations, and Disillusionment in a Dutch Military Innovation Hub

Many militaries envision a technologically advanced future with a strong innovative capability and therefore invest in so-called innovation hubs focused on experimenting with new modes of operation with drones and (semi-)autonomous vehicles. However, there appears to be a discrepancy between these military visions and soldiers’ lived experiences on the ground. This article presents an ethnographic study of one innovation hub: the Robots and Autonomous Systems unit of the Dutch Army. Examining this unit through an analytical framework of sociotechnical imaginaries and expectations, we first outline how “innovation” and “military” imaginaries are integrated so that technological innovation is presented as necessary, desirable, and inevitable for military futures. Second, we explore soldiers’ experiences of military innovation, identifying friction between the strategic and operational levels. At the strategic level, soldiers experience meaning and purpose in their work whereas, at the operational level, soldiers’ expectations, practices, and experiences do not align with the “innovative military future” imaginary, resulting in disillusionment. With this empirical study, we contribute to a better understanding of how large-scale visions of technological “progress” play out in military practice.

Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program Phase 2 (DOC)

Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program Phase 2 (DOC)

A Review of Cultural, Policy, and Technological Developments in Silicon Valley's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Silicon Valley has been a hub of technology innovation and entrepreneurship since the 1950s. And its entrepreneurial ecosystem is the key to its success and durability. Culture, government, and technology all play a part in Silicon Valley's startup ecosystem.These changes have been crucial in establishing the region as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The people of Silicon Valley have a high tolerance for risk, creativity, and experimentation. Government policies in Silicon Valley play an essential role in encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation by contributing to the region's pervasive "fail fast" attitude. Silicon Valley has been at the vanguard of technical progress and entrepreneurial growth, and regulations like protected innovation have helped to safeguard intellectual property. Recent years have seen significant progress in the areas of information technology, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence in this part of the world. In order to gain a thorough understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Silicon Valley and to offer helpful experience and suggestions for the development of industries in other parts of the world, this paper will use the research method of literature review to summarize and review the evolution of culture, policy, and technology in Silicon Valley's ecological environment.

Dóri Pap and Susan Davis - Ideas to Serve: the Evolution of Social Innovation Education at GeorgiaTech

This letter delves into the transformation of social innovation education at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) by exploring the evolution of its Ideas to Serve competition. Against the backdrop of Georgia Tech's vision for the next decade as an inclusive innovation hub, this narrative captures a conversation between Dori Pap, Managing Director, and Susan Davis, Practitioner in Residence at the Institute for Leadership and Social Impact. They discuss how the competition has evolved from fostering "heropreneurs" to empowering students to critically engage with systemic social issues. They present a compelling recap of how Georgia Tech has reimagined social innovation education by elevating community-based organizations as co-educators, inspiring students to become effective and empathetic social entrepreneurs.

Numerical Investigations and Artificial Neural Network-Based Performance Prediction of a Centrifugal Fan Having Innovative Hub Geometry Designs

It is a well-known fact that air approaches the eye region of the rotating impeller of a centrifugal fan with shock-less entry conditions in an ideal scenario. The flow in this region is associated with induced swirl losses, leading to cumulative performance losses. Proper flow guidance in the vicinity of the eye region is essential to minimize possible flow losses. The flow guiding structure may be in the form of a projection or extrusion connected to the rotating impeller of the turbo machines and is generally named a hub. These attachments enhance the overall flow augmentation of the turbo machines in terms of static pressure improvement by reducing a significant amount of inlet turning losses. This article attempts to highlight the efficacy of hubs of various shapes and sizes on the pressure rise of the centrifugal fan using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Simulation results revealed that the optimized hub configuration yields about an 8.4% higher head coefficient and 8.6% higher relative theoretical efficiency than that obtained for the hub-less base configuration. This improvement in these paraments therefore also commemorates the global progress in energy efficiency as per the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 7 in particular. Simultaneously, in the Artificial Neural Network (ANN), a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) model is used to forecast the performance of a centrifugal fan with an optimized hub design. The results predicted by the ANN model are found to be in close agreement with the optimized hub shape’s numerical results.

Innovation hubs in Australian public institutions: An exploratory study of their resilience in a time of disruption

Public universities have sought to leverage innovation hubs as physical environments to enable new collaboration models and partnerships between students, academics, budding entrepreneurs, and wider industry. In particular, innovation hubs have allowed public universities to position themselves as active participants in the entrepreneurial arena. These innovation hubs, however, experienced a tremendous degree of disruption because of COVID-19-induced lockdowns, social distancing, closed borders, and a reduced number of persons allowed in a given space. Thus, it is essential to gain an understanding of how innovation hubs in public institutions have responded to these issues, ascertain the degree to which such disruption has impacted them, and identify the strategies that have allowed hubs to stay operational in such a disruptive environment. To do this, personnel involved in the management and administration of such hubs were interviewed, together with a selection of industry experts. This qualitative interrogation allowed a thematic analysis to be undertaken, thereby resulting in several emergent themes that contributed to identifying key learnings that could assist the operation of these innovation hubs in times of future disruption.

Platform-based support for AI uptake by SMEs: guidelines to design service bundles

PurposeManufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have already noticed the tangible benefits offered by artificial intelligence (AI). Several approaches have been proposed with a view to support them in the processes entailed in this innovation path. These include multisided platforms created to enable the connection between SMEs and AI developers, making it easier for them to network each other. While such platforms are complex, they facilitate simultaneous interaction with several stakeholders and reaching out to new potential users (both SMEs and AI developers), through a collaboration with supporting ecosystems such as digital innovation hubs (DIHs).Design/methodology/approachMixed methods were used. The literature review was performed to identify the existing approaches within and outside the manufacturing domain. Computer-assisted telephonic (in-depth) interviewing , was conducted to include perspectives of AI platform stakeholders and collect primary data from various European countries.FindingsSeveral challenges and barriers for AI platform stakeholders were identified alongside the corresponding best practices and guidelines on how to address them.Originality/valueAn effective approach was proposed to provide support to the industrial platform managers in this field, by developing guidelines and best practices on how a platform should build its services to support the ecosystem.

Going native? How crypto technology may help regulators

The crypto industry suffered a prolonged crisis in 2022. It is now at a turning point, as lawmakers around the world deploy new statutes aimed at curtailing endemic fraud, inadequate risk management, and bad governance. This is a net positive for the ecosystem – without legal certainty, it cannot flourish. In this paper, I argue that some crypto-native constructs may usefully complement traditional frameworks in the regulation of both crypto itself and the broader financial system. Protected environments, such as regulatory sandboxes and innovation hubs, should be leveraged to foster creative cooperation between authorities and the crypto industry.

Analysis of an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Northern Haiti to Stimulate Innovation and Reduce Poverty

In Northern Haiti, a unique experience has been developed and an innovation hub has been realised; the core of this is a City of Knowledge that is articulated around an entrepreneurial university, the Institute of Science, Technology and Graduate Studies of Haiti (ISTEAH). Spread over seven departments in the country, as its name suggests, ISTEAH is a technological university that seeks to put science and technology at the service of development by training citizens, leaders and innovators who can promote the advancement of the country. Resolutely turning towards entrepreneurship, this university is in the process of setting up an entire entrepreneurial ecosystem centred around an incubator-accelerator to create—with students, graduates and young people from around the country—technological and social enterprises to generate value, create wealth and jobs and support sustainable development. In this article, this experiment and its perspectives are analysed in light of the sustainable development goals.

Цифрова індустріалізація як чинник економічної динаміки

The article shows the impact of digital industrialization on nationally rooted development. Generalized forecast estimates of international organizations regarding economic growth in Ukraine. Attention is focused on the impact of the war with Russia on Ukraine’s economy and possible consequences of this impact. Based on a by-industry analysis of export dynamics, the author shows the growing leading role of the IT sector in promoting this country’s budget revenue. The main indicators of activity, factors promoting and inhibiting the development of the IT sector, and its activities in ensuring the digitalization of the country's economy are comprehensively analyzed. The potential risks of digital industrialization for nationally rooted development are highlighted. The role of the government in promoting digital industrialization is substantiated. Emphasis is placed on the advantages of creating digital innovation hubs for solving complex problems of digital transformation of regions. The author highlights foreign experience of the digital transformation of the economy and examples of its use in Ukraine.

The Food Systems, One Health, and Resilience (FOR) Approach—Led by the FOR-Runners

The COVID-19 pandemic, adverse effects of climate change, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and other threats have been calling on all relevant stakeholders from varied disciplines to collaborate via the One Health approach, addressing the health of people, animals, plants, and their shared environment. This narrative review examines the need to add two more dimensions to the One Health approach: food systems and resilience, thus laying down the foundation of the Food System, One Health, and Resilience (FOR) approach. By doing so, all FOR approach elements would benefit from collaborative, multisectoral, transdisciplinary, planet-based, and system-focused efforts. Addressing more comprehensive determinants that positively impact resilience and sustainability would upgrade the One Health approach. We share some examples of academic institutions and innovation hubs that use this approach to improve access to adequate, safe, nutritious, and sustainable diets for all on our planet. We call on other FOR stakeholders, including governing institutions, to embrace the FOR approach and join the “FOR-runners”. It is suggested to widen the FOR community by including the doers, the food system’s workers, and consumers and to create the needed common grounds to drive for solutions rooted in equitable, just, locally tailored, inclusive, and sustainable solutions that withstand emergencies.