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The Triple Helix Model of Innovation and Sustainable Development Goals: A Literature Review

Author

Listed:
  • Mahshid G. Zadegan
  • Sepehr Ghazinoory
  • Shohreh Nasri

Abstract

Innovation is widely recognized as a critical driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); however, the full potential of innovation, particularly through systemic approaches like the Triple Helix model, remains underexplored. The Triple Helix model offers a structured framework to address the multifaceted challenges in sustainable development. This study conducts a scoping review to map the existing literature on the application of the Triple Helix model in the context of the SDGs. Utilizing a systematic five‐stage approach, we identified relevant studies through comprehensive searches in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. From an initial pool of 745 sources, a rigorous screening process distilled the selection to 40 sources for in‐depth analysis. These sources were evaluated across five dimensions: research objectives and focus areas, methodological orientation, theoretical frameworks, case study coverage, and the perspectives of innovation helix actors. Our findings reveal a significant gap in the literature concerning the explicit linkage between the Triple Helix model and the SDGs. The reviewed sources exhibit diverse applications and conceptualizations of the model but lack a unified approach to harness its capabilities in the sustainable development context. The SWOT analysis presented uncovers critical strengths—such as the model's adaptability—and weaknesses—including fragmented methodologies. Consequently, this study underscores the necessity for more integrative, systemic research approaches that consider the dynamic interactions among helix actors comprehensively. It also emphasizes the importance of longitudinal and historical analyses to capture innovation dynamics over time. By identifying current trends and gaps, the study provides a foundation for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to develop strategic interventions that foster effective collaboration among key stakeholders, ultimately contributing to sustainable innovation and development.

Suggested Citation

  • Mahshid G. Zadegan & Sepehr Ghazinoory & Shohreh Nasri, 2025. "The Triple Helix Model of Innovation and Sustainable Development Goals: A Literature Review," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(S1), pages 1482-1497, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:s1:p:1482-1497
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70041
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    2. Evgenia Anagnostopoulou, 2026. "Linking Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Action in the Oil and Gas Value Chain," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 34(2), pages 2108-2125, April.

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