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The emergence of new technology-based sectors in European regions: A proximity-based analysis of nanotechnology

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  • Colombelli, Alessandra
  • Krafft, Jackie
  • Quatraro, Francesco

Abstract

This paper analyzes the emergence of new technology-based sectors at the regional level focusing on nanotechnology, an infant technology whose evolution can be traced on the basis of patent application filings. We employ a methodological framework based on the ‘product-space’ approach, to investigate whether the development of new technologies is linked to the structure of the existing local knowledge base. We conduct a 15 EU country analysis at NUTS 2 level using patent data for 1986–2006. The results of the descriptive and econometric analysis support the idea that history matters in the spatial development of a sector, and that the technological competences accumulated at the local level are likely to shape the future patterns of technological diversification.

Suggested Citation

  • Colombelli, Alessandra & Krafft, Jackie & Quatraro, Francesco, 2014. "The emergence of new technology-based sectors in European regions: A proximity-based analysis of nanotechnology," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 43(10), pages 1681-1696.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:respol:v:43:y:2014:i:10:p:1681-1696
    DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2014.07.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Product space; Technological diversification; New industries; Capabilities; EU regions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes
    • N94 - Economic History - - Regional and Urban History - - - Europe: 1913-

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