ABSTRACT
Global innovation networks (GINs) are networks of innovation activity in which some knowledge-intensive activities are based in both developed and developing countries. Variability in the level of globalization, proximity to the innovation frontier, and network strength provides a matrix of possible GIN structures. A ‘strong-form’ GIN is part of a highly globalized network that includes developed and developing countries, conducts new-to-the-world innovation, and participates in an extensive network that includes actors beyond its value chain. Conversely, a ‘weak-form’ GIN participates in a weakly internationalized network, for example, one restricted to Europe, conducts incremental or adaptive innovation, and participates in a weak network restricted to an internalized structure or within a single value chain. The range of combinations in between these two extremes renders a number of distinct GIN formations.
