Institutional agency and path creation: Institutional path from industrial to knowledge city

Abstract

This chapter argues for the need to focus more explicitly on institutions and the related agency to gain a better understanding of the relationship between micro and macro levels and thus of path creation. The core concepts related to path creation and institutional agency are investigated. The research question is: What are the main institutional strategies adopted by intentional actors, independently or in collaboration, in their efforts to boost institutional path creation and renewal? This question is scrutinized in the context of a knowledge-city development and use Tampere, Finland as a case in point. The analysis reveals that the early stages of new path creation can be explained by both institutional factors and/or the strong entrepreneurial agency It also highlights the crucial role of the institutional agency shaping the rules of the game and the playing field for industry-oriented efforts.