Some results on the graph-theoretical identification of microclusters in the Belgian National Innovation System

Meeusen, Wim and Dumont, Michel (1997): Some results on the graph-theoretical identification of microclusters in the Belgian National Innovation System.

Abstract

In this paper we will present some results of the graph-theoretical analysis of the Belgian network of research co-operation and research agreements as it transpires through the projects falling under the general heading of the R&D Framework programmes of the EU, the projects of the EUREKA initiative, the R&D projects financed by the national authorities at the regional and federal level, and finally the private agreements and other forms of co-operation contained in the MERIT/CATI database. Particular attention will be devoted to the clustering issue: how can we define micro-clusters (2) in a graph-theoretical context, which micro-clusters of actors emerge, and what are their main characteristics. We also briefly address the important question how these micro-clusters relate to clusters identified at higher levels of aggregation and in other types of approaches. A more thorough analysis of this last issue is left for later stages of our research.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Micro clusters, national innovation system, graph theory, R&D cooperation, EU Framework Programmes, EUREKA
• Subjects: D - Microeconomics > D2 - Production and Organizations > D22 - Firm Behavior: Empirical Analysis; D - Microeconomics > D8 - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty > D85 - Network Formation and Analysis: Theory; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights > O32 - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights > O38 - Government Policy

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