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The spatial dimension of the economics of innovation

Author

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  • Raquel Ortega-Argilés
  • Francesco Quatraro

Abstract

Innovation is intrinsically spatial: its production, diffusion and consequences depend on firms, cities, regions and the networks and institutions linking them. This editorial introduces the Special Issue on the spatial economics of innovation, situating its contributions within the evolution from agglomeration economies and localised spillovers to related diversification, networked innovation systems and place-based policy. The papers address three mechanisms: how innovation, proximity and regional capabilities are measured; capability accumulation and cumulative spatial divergence, especially around digital technologies; and how institutions, networks and policy mixes mediate knowledge flows and regional development. Collectively, they show innovation is neither spatially blind nor automatically welfare-enhancing: benefits hinge on absorptive capacity, complementary skills, institutional brokerage and local–extra-regional interaction. It advances a capability-sensitive, relational and distributionally aware spatial economics of innovation.

Suggested Citation

  • Raquel Ortega-Argilés & Francesco Quatraro, 2026. "The spatial dimension of the economics of innovation," Spatial Economic Analysis, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 21(3), pages 409-422, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:specan:v:21:y:2026:i:3:p:409-422
    DOI: 10.1080/17421772.2026.2713151
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