Which innovation policy initiatives are effective? An analysis of specific policy measures.

Purpose and goal

The purpose of this project is to put, from various perspectives such as economic theory, expert recommendation and international comparisons, Swedish innovation policy in a context where it can be systematically analyzed. The goal is to submit recommendations for a more effective innovation policy, by assessing how well the current policy corresponds to best practice. The project aims to pinpoint areas where the divergence between policy and best practice is especially large, and also to submit policy recommendations that are highly applicable in practice.

Results and expected effects

The most important areas for reform have been identified as (in no particular order): 1. Lack of politically holistic innovation policy. Bridging ministries and adjusting the public bodies more generally are important areas for reform. 2. Lack of focus on the entrepreneur in the innovation process. 3. Lack of career opportunities for `excellent´ researchers, and a difficulty to attract young, promising research talent, nationally and internationally. 4. Lack of effective cluster policy.

Approach and implementation

The final report has been crafted such that a literature review of innovation policy effectiveness (and some adjacent fields) has been conducted. These insights are complemented with an international overview, aiming to put Sweden in a context relative to comparable nations. VINNOVA has submitted considerations both concerning structure and content through continuous meetings along the project timeline.