Publication: Boosting Tech Innovation Ecosystems in Cities: A Framework for Growth and Sustainability of Urban Tech Innovation Ecosystems
Date
2015-11-01
ISSN
Published
2015-11-01
Author(s)
Mulas, Victor
Minges, Michael
Applebaum, Hallie
Abstract
Cities are emerging as hubs of
technological innovation. This is characterized by an
ongoing shift from technology parks in suburban areas, to
entrepreneurial activity within cities. There is a global
trend of startups in cities like Berlin, Buenos Aires,
Mumbai and Madrid. The rise of technology startups in cities
is leading to new sources of employment and economic growth,
by creation of new businesses and employment categories.
Traditional manufacturing and routine cognitive skills jobs
are being eroded, and the creation of new sources of
employment and growth is vital to maintain competitiveness,
reduce poverty, and increase shared prosperity. The growth
of tech innovation and entrepreneurship is not equal in all
cities. Some cities experience higher, faster, and more
sustainable growth than others. This paper discusses
research on what factors make tech innovation and
entrepreneurship ecosystems grow faster and larger in some
cities. The findings point out that the social dimension, or
the interpersonal connections and communities, are critical
for the growth and sustainability of the ecosystem; and,
that networking assets (defined as community building
events, skill training events, collaboration spaces, and
networking of mentors) are central to this social dimension.
This paper includes a) proposed framework for urban
technology innovation ecosystems based on this findings; b)
testing of the framework in New York, and; c) policy
implications of this findings.
Citation
“Mulas, Victor; Minges, Michael; Applebaum, Hallie. 2015. Boosting Tech Innovation Ecosystems in Cities : A Framework for Growth and Sustainability of Urban Tech Innovation Ecosystems. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/23029 License: CC BY-NC-ND 3.0 IGO.”