Territory as a Driver to Collaboration inside Industry Networks

Abstract The localization of an industry network plays an important role to promote innovation, mainly when Small, Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are involved. The concept of Regional Systems of Innovation (RSI) is so thoroughly assessed that nowadays regions are deemed as the most appropriate scale for innovation policies in order to reinforce both innovation and competitiveness inside the network. A RSI is characterized by co-operation in activities of innovation between firms and knowledge creating organizations, such as Universities and R&D institutes. The innovation-supportive culture enables both firms and system to evolve over time. Therefore the territory could be a powerful facilitator for collaborative practices. Present research aims at highlighting the role of the territory, assessing its influence on the formation of collaborative links. The paper will try to assess the role of RSI in promoting an effective collaboration among firms.