ABSTRACT
The chapter is based on an empirical inquiry into the problems and the situation of new technology based firms (NTBF) in the Austrian province of Styria. The change within this region is interpreted in the context of an “active space” approach. The presence and growing number of NTBFs is regarded as a strong supporting element for the region in its attempt to become more of an “active space” and in its change from a closed to an open border region. The main problems of Styria’s NTBFs are classified, and endogenous and exogenous factors of success and failures are given. The regional distribution and the technological fields of the firms are identified. Policy responses to the problems within a regional technology policy concept are outlined and corresponding instruments described.
