Firms' Absorptive Capacity for Research-Based Collaboration-an Analysis of a Norwegian R&D Brokering Policy Program

摘要

The objective of this article is to explore how policy supported instruments aimed to stimulate research-based innovation influence long-term innovation activity in firms with different knowledge bases. In an effort to contribute to the renewal of existing industry, some policies aim to stimulate firms to adopt and apply research-based knowledge in innovation processes. This article includes a qualitative study of a specific 'R&D brokering policy instrument' in Norway aimed at increasing R&D-based innovation processes in firms. R&D brokering policy instruments include funding schemes that are designed to foster and transfer technology and knowledge between firms and research communities. The study shows that the absorptive capacity for R&D collaboration varies depending upon the dominant knowledge base of firms. It is well-acknowledged that no policy fits all regions. This study also implicates that no R&D brokering policy instrument fits all industries equally well.