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Research Streams in Cluster Upgrading. A Literature Review

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  • Marta Gancarczyk

    (Dr. Hab., Associate Professor, Department of Globalization and Economic Integration, Institute of Economics, Finance and Management, Faculty of Management and Social Communication, Jagiellonian University, Prof. Stanislaw Lojasiewicz 4, 30-415 Krakow, Poland)

  • Joanna Bohatkiewicz

    (Ph.D. Student and Lecturer at the Faculty of Management and Social Communication, Jagiellonian University Prof. Stanislaw Lojasiewicz 4, 30-415 Krakow, Poland)

Abstract

This paper aims to identify and systemize the research streams in regional cluster upgrading. Cluster upgrading belongs to broader research in the dynamics of industrial agglomerations, currently, the major topic in studies on clusters. Within this literature, the upgrading concept differentiates by the focus on structural change in response to the insertion of regional clusters into global value chains (GVCs). Based on the narrative literature review, we identify and discuss two major research streams and classify them as the positive and the normative. Moreover, we elaborate a framework for studying the antecedents of cluster upgrading to conclude with research questions that may serve further systematic reviews and empirical investigations. This paper provides two contributions to the cluster dynamics literature with a focus on the upgrading of industrial agglomerations. First, it offers a comprehensive approach to the cluster upgrading theory by integrating the fragmented research in this area. Second, it proposes a theoretical framework to set up further research directions.

Suggested Citation

  • Marta Gancarczyk & Joanna Bohatkiewicz, 2018. "Research Streams in Cluster Upgrading. A Literature Review," Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Innovation, Fundacja Upowszechniająca Wiedzę i Naukę "Cognitione", vol. 4(4), pages 17-42.
    • Handle: RePEc:aae:journl:v:4:y:2018:i:4:p:17-42
    DOI: 10.7341/20181441
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    cluster upgrading; global value chains; cluster evolution; cluster life cycles; capabilities; governance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L14 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Transactional Relationships; Contracts and Reputation
    • L23 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Organization of Production
    • F02 - International Economics - - General - - - International Economic Order and Integration

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