Key enabling technologies (KETs) in the technological space: embeddedness and regional knowledge creation

The study investigates the impact of European Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) on regional innovation. KETs are a group of six technologies that share features with the so-called General-Purpose Technologies and are anticipated to contribute to innovation, Europe’s industrial competitiveness, and tackling grand societal challenges (e.g., industrial biotechnology, nanotechnology or photonics). As previous studies show the innovation-driving effects of KETs, the role of the position of KETs in the regional technological space and its effect on innovation within a region is researched. Data from 141 German Labor Market Regions (LMRs) over a 15-year period is analyzed. A varying and even negative impact of individual KETs on regional knowledge creation can be identified. These findings emphasize KETs’ heterogeneity and the need for tailored regional policies.

Wessendorf, C., Kopka, A., & Fornahl, D. (2024). Key enabling technologies (KETs) in the technological space: embeddedness and regional knowledge creation. European Planning Studies, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2024.2420857

Contact: Alexander Kopka