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Innovation modes in the peripheral economy

Author

Listed:
  • David Doloreux

    (HEC Montréal, Chair in Innovation and Regional Development)

  • Richard Shearmur

    (McGill University, School of Urban Planning)

Abstract

This paper advances debates on the regional contextualization of SME innovation modes in peripheral regions. We examine which modes are pursued by peripheral firms – whether internalized or externalized STI and DUI modes, multiple innovation modes, or a single mode – and the extent to which they relate to different types of innovation (technological or non-technological) and varying levels of novelty. Empirically, we analyze firm-level survey data of 172 peripheral firms in the province of Quebec. The results reveal that firms in the periphery tend to be introverted and to engage in internal STI and DUI, which have a stronger impact on innovation outputs (technological, non-technological, and radical product innovations) than external modes. However, firms in more isolated peripheral areas tend to be less innovative than their small-town or less peripheral counterparts, especially regarding technological and radical product innovation.

Suggested Citation

  • David Doloreux & Richard Shearmur, 2026. "Innovation modes in the peripheral economy," Journal of Evolutionary Economics, Springer, vol. 36(1), pages 1-23, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joevec:v:36:y:2026:i:1:d:10.1007_s00191-026-00947-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s00191-026-00947-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • P25 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Socialist and Transition Economies - - - Urban, Rural, and Regional Economics

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