The Regional Studies Association has awarded a Policy Expo entitled Inclusive Innovation: Designing and delivering innovation-led growth to optimise inclusion outcomes.
The research will be led by:
- David Marlow, Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies, Newcastle University, UK
- Diana Morales, Umeå University, Sweden
- Luke Green, Newcastle University, UK
- Funké Michaels, Newcastle University, UK
- Rachel Travis, University of Pittsburgh, USA
It is well evidenced that investments in innovation often favour high-skilled professionals, research-intensive universities, well-financed businesses, and a select group of ambitious entrepreneurs. Even when public policy explicitly targets ‘left behind places’, these investments can still increase inequalities, polarisation and create enclaves detached from the communities that host them.
This policy area is of major interest and importance, but fraught with tensions and trade-offs which need to be debated in an open and evidence-informed manner. Our Policy Expo book will summarise the findings from two in-depth case studies in the UK and USA and introduce a third case in Colombia. The Policy Expo book offers a methodology and practical tools applicable worldwide, enabling policymakers and practitioners to create innovation investments that maximise their benefits for businesses and citizens that are often excluded or side-lined.
From this empirical work it will draw out findings and recommendations for future Inclusive Innovation policy and practice.
Expected Publication date: 2025