Mapping the research landscape of innovation intermediaries in public procurement: a review of reviews

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the current state of research on innovation intermediaries by analysing systematic literature reviews (SLRs), focusing specifically on the extent to which public procurement is considered. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a review of reviews methodology, with SLRs as the unit of analysis. This approach allows for a comprehensive synthesis of existing research on innovation intermediaries and a focused examination of public procurement within this literature. Findings The findings reveal that research predominantly focuses on private-sector dynamics, leaving public procurement underexplored. Barriers to public procurement of innovation (PPoI), such as inadequate supplier interaction, underscore the need for intermediaries, yet their role in overcoming these challenges is not thoroughly examined. This highlights the necessity for more targeted research on how innovation intermediaries can effectively support procurement processes in the public sector, particularly at the management level, to enhance PPoI outcomes. Social implications Public procurement is a strategic tool for achieving policy objectives. Leveraging innovation intermediaries as an instrument for implementation could significantly enhance the effectiveness of PPoI. Originality/value This study evaluates SLRs to assess the extent to which public procurement is addressed and identifies transferable insights to enhance the understanding of innovation intermediaries in a public procurement context. Building on these findings and an exploratory analysis of 90 identified innovation intermediaries in public procurement across the European Union, this study conceptualises how these organisations can support public procurement management in different procurement situations, particularly in contexts with high or low technology readiness levels.