Territorial Patterns in Public Support for Knowledge Intensive Sector: An Urban‐Rural Gradient in Poland

This paper investigates how local government support for knowledge‐intensive sector (KIS) firms varies across rural, urban‐rural, and urban municipalities in Poland. Drawing on original survey data, we apply non‐parametric tests and OLS regression to assess territorial differences in n firms' evaluations of innovation‐oriented policies. Results indicate a clear urban–rural gradient: urban municipalities receive more positive assessments, while urban–rural municipalities align more closely with rural areas. Digital infrastructure is assessed most positively, while human capital support receives the weakest evaluations. Findings highlight the need for territorially differentiated policies better aligned with the needs of KIS firms. The study contributes to the literature on territorial inequalities and local governance by showing how municipality type is associated with differences in firms' perceptions of local support.