How to Enhance Regional Innovation Ecosystem Resilience in China? A Configuration Analysis Based on Panel Data

Abstract

In an era characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, external risk disturbances can be mitigated by bolstering the resilience of regional innovation ecosystems. This approach has emerged as the key strategy for fostering regional innovation and achieving high-quality development in China. Utilizing asymmetric configuration theory and methodologies, this article investigates multiple complex pathways through which the resilience of regional innovation ecosystems can be enhanced. Specifically, drawing from asymmetric innovation theory, we developed a research framework for analyzing the configuration of innovation ecosystem resilience (IER). Then, we utilized panel data qualitative comparative analysis to examine the configurations for high and nonhigh IER. The findings reveal that 1) there is a time effect on the necessity of most conditions for both high and nonhigh IER, with a high marketization level being the only necessary condition for high IRE, and that 2) a negligible temporal influence is observed in the configuration analysis results for high and nonhigh IER, and three stable pathways for high IER and four for nonhigh IER have been determined. This article provides valuable insights and references for improving relevant policies or adjusting innovation strategies to enhance regional IER in China.