Open innovation in the SMEs of the Veneto region.

Abstract

As it has been largely studied and debated, the Italian economic system is characterized by a strong relevance of SMEs, generally belonging to the industrial districts widespread in our territory. In light of that and in order to define which have been the mains changes that in those years have mostly marked these systems, it has been decided to begin this study analysing growth, development and evolution of the Italian industrial districts. Due to globalization, shortening product life cycle and an always more dynamic marketplace, what emerged is that clusters and SMEs are gradually opening up their boundaries beneficing of new forms of collaboration and innovation also known as Open Innovation practices. Therefore, starting from these considerations and recognising innovation as a key source to assure success and maintenance of the competitiveness, the phenomenon of Open Innovation has been largely studied. In particular, the purpose of this research has been to evaluate the current degree of openness in SMEs belonging to the most performing districts of the Veneto region and to delineate recommendations and opportunities that firms could catch to reach superior performances.