Research/learning and programme development activities related to BSR Stars/StarDust

Purpose and goal

The objective of this phase of the research project was to analyze and synthesize research results in order to provide input and support to BSR Stars management as they discuss and finalize plans for the next phase of the flagship activities, as well as to contribute to innovation research. The project has resulted in a number of reports (follow-up analysis of the StarDust networks, StarDust´s final report), articles and presentations (at the TCI conf. in Kolding 2013, at BSR Stars meetings, and at internal VINNOVA seminars), a draft of BSR Stars 2.0, and a PhD dissertation.

Results and expected effects

The direct results of the project are recommendations for a more focused direction for BSR Stars (to develop and implement both funding instruments and other support/capacity building activities to help actors in transnational innovation networks), as well as more general recommendations/areas for future development related to policy to support international innovation processes. The expected effects are a clearer focus for BSR Stars activities going forward, and additional research on policies to foster intl innovation processes (focusing on small company engagement).

Approach and implementation

The project has been implemented through a case study of the StarDust project a BSR INTERREG-financed project focused on transnational commercial activities in research and innovation, clusters and SME networks. Empirical evidence has been collected from intermediaries coordinating activities within and between innovation nodes, as well as from firms and research organizations acting within these nodes. Data has been analysed, and conclusions and recommendations have been communicated through a number of project reports, conference articles, and a PhD dissertation.