A Tale of Different Realities

Abstract

This chapter aims to identify the determinants that affect innovation capacity at regional level in Europe. It proposes modelling the territorial innovation capacity and identifies relevant factors with influence on the innovation capacity at a regional level. The chapter uses the Regional Innovation Scoreboard database and cluster analysis to detect behavioral patterns in terms of innovation performance in European regions. The results show that innovation capacity is related to regional governance, and particularly regional autonomy, regional control of innovation policy, influencing the affectation of structural funds, and the region's location within the European Union. Cohesion policy criteria is also a significant factor, demonstrating the adequacy of the European regional policy's new programming regarding innovation policy. These results point to the importance of the participation of regions in formulation, and implementation bottom-up strategies to develop innovation dynamics and develop partnerships with other public and/or private actors.