R&D cooperation in SMEs: the direct effect and the moderating role of human capital

Cantabene, Claudia and grassi, iacopo (2018): R&D cooperation in SMEs: the direct effect and the moderating role of human capital.

Abstract

We analyze the determinants of R&D cooperation for SMEs in Italy. We introduce in the literature human capital as one of the main determinants of R&D cooperation, concentrating on its moderating role, and specifically focusing on the high-tech sector. Using an extremely rich dataset, we improve the literature, building robust explanatory variables, and disaggregating the cooperation by partner. We find that human capital facilitates cooperation, but its moderating role depends on the type of disaggregation and/or the partner.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: R&D cooperation; subsidy; firm behavior; human capital; moderating effect
• Subjects: C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C2 - Single Equation Models ; Single Variables > C23 - Panel Data Models ; Spatio-temporal Models; C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C2 - Single Equation Models ; Single Variables > C25 - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models ; Discrete Regressors ; Proportions ; Probabilities; H - Public Economics > H3 - Fiscal Policies and Behavior of Economic Agents > H32 - Firm; 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

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