Frames, interests, and incentives–a typology of institutionalizing RRI in the business sector derived from ten pioneering projects

Abstract

While in scientific and policy discourse on responsible research and innovation (RRI) the desirability and sustainability of innovations are central, the business sector follows different logics revolving around competitiveness, profits, and growth. They manifest themselves in different discursive frames, indicate potentially conflicting interests, and allow specific incentive mechanisms to be utilized. This paper builds on discursive institutionalism, presents a qualitative comparative case study of ten EU-funded pioneering projects, and derives a generalized typology. It contributes to the theoretical debate on institutionalizing RRI by applying discursive institutionalism and through a nuanced understanding of three leverage points for organizational change in the business sector. We conclude that frames, interests, and incentives are interlinked phenomena and thus should be considered comprehensively. As our typology addresses specific contexts at regional, corporate and process level, it can be further utilized to develop tailored policies and strategies capable of institutionalizing RRI in the business sector.