ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the role of local universities and public research institutes in shaping the recent growth of European regional clusters of technology-based SMEs. It provides a theoretical perspective on the concept of 'regional collective learning', which is increasingly being argued by commentators as being of central importance for understanding how successful regional SME clusters maintain and enhance their innovativeness in a technologically-dynamic world. The chapter assesses the extent and importance of specific regional collective learning processes identified by the network's research as currently operating in European high-technology regions. It considers some of the main policy implications and conclusions for promoting and supporting Europe's technology-based regional SME clusters arising from the network's findings. The outlines the nature and reviews the impact of different regional institutional and policy contexts, .
