Are the Innovation Needs of Low-Technological Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Line with Knowledge Production by Research Institutions?

Camille Aouinait, Danilo Christen, Agnieszka Kosinska, Wilfried Andlauer and Christoph Carlen

Journal of Innovation Economics, 2019, vol. n° 29, issue 2, 183-211

Abstract: Small agricultural firms have to cope with increasing economic, legal and environmental difficulties. The purpose of the paper is to identify whether there are available research outputs to these challenges, focusing on the Swiss traditional fruit sector. Identification of firms? needs using face-to-face interviews and a focus group allowed us to prioritize innovations. Knowledge and innovation transfer gaps were identified thanks to bibliometric analysis, providing hints for research program orientations. The main sectoral needs were related to varieties like increasing pest and disease resistance, weather sensitivity, and ripening behavior. Knowledge produced by research institutions was partly related to the firms? needs. The study demonstrated a need for better coordination between agricultural stakeholders and researchers. Knowledge must be transferred and shared in the network with greater efficiency by extending interactions and involving stakeholders earlier in the innovation process. However, the search for scientific outputs should include more specificities of the local environment. JEL Codes: O31, O32

Keywords: Bibliometric Analysis; Innovation Needs; Knowledge Gaps; Multi-Stakeholder Approach; Traditional Fruit Production; Research Institutions (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O31 O32 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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