REGIONAL INNOVATION SYSTEMS IN THE PERIPHERY: THE CASE OF THE BEAUCE IN QUÉBEC (CANADA)

Abstract

All too often, innovation research emphasizes core regions exemplifying successful innovation systems or "learning regions" such as, Silicon Valley, Route 128, Emilia-Romagna and Baden-Württemberg. However, lessons learned from these regions are seldom applicable elsewhere, in particular to territories where actors strategic to the innovation process are less diversified. The regional innovation system (RIS) in peripheral regions, and the likelihood of their acting as conduits for the innovation system, have seldom been the subjects of discussion. The objective of this paper is to study the way in which innovation occurs, including an investigation of actual innovation activities and capabilities of firms located in a peripheral area, and specific factors affecting their innovation activities. The discussion draws its empirical substance from the case of the Beauce in Québec (Canada). A survey of 45 SMEs was conducted in order to get a better understanding of the key dimensions of innovation activities.