Diversity, Innovation and Clusters: Spatial Perspectives

Increased emphasis on the links between regional diversity and regional knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurship highlights the need for a focus on the spatial aspects of these multifaceted, dynamic relationships in order to improve our understanding. By means of a conceptual approach, this timely book illustrates the links between innovation and economic development through the role of space.

This thought-provoking book addresses the questions regarding diversity, innovation and clusters that require further investigation and analysis. Chapters written by expert contributors bring together cutting-edge theoretical and empirical studies to consider issues such as how spatial diversity affects collaboration, knowledge and innovation; how innovation arises in various locations; how innovative approaches can be identified for local regeneration; and how the growing visibility and importance of start-up companies in the global economy can be analysed.

Diversity, Innovation and Clusters will be a key resource for students and academics researching in the fields of economic geography, regional economics, innovation and entrepreneurship. This book provides insights that will be crucial for providing policy makers, planners and consultants with a more comprehensive decision-making platform by utilising spatial perspectives as a driving force for economic growth and development.

Contributors include: T. Arvemo, D. Bartlett, K. Berg, I. Bernhard, U. Gråsjö, T. Grønning, M. Imase, I. Jonsson, C. Karlsson, N. Kishida, U. Lundh Snis, M. McKelvey, T. Maeno, L. Mósesdóttir, T. Mroczkowski, G.F. Mulligan, M. Okuyama, A.K. Olsson, K. Sakakura, T. Yasui

Edited by Iréne Bernhard, PhD, Urban Gråsjö, PhD, School of Business, Economics and IT, University West, Charlie Karlsson, Professor Emeritus of the Economics of Technological Change, Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping University and Professor Emeritus of Industrial Economics, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Sweden