Resource orchestration in innovation ecosystems: a comparative study between innovation ecosystems at different stages of development

Abstract

Objective of the study: The present study aimed to answer the following question: How are resources orchestrated to generate innovation in innovation ecosystems? Methodology/Approach: An exploratory qualitative research was conducted through documentary analysis, non-participant observation, and in-depth interviews with actors from two Brazilian ecosystems in different stages of development: 4th District (emerging) and Porto Digital (growth). Originality/Relevance: Innovation ecosystems can be understood as a set of resources that foster innovation. Current research suggests that even more important than resources is the articulation among them and the way they are orchestrated. Main Results: It was found that resource pooling characterizes the transition moment from the emergency stage to the growth stage. Theoretical/ Methodological Contribution: A direct relationship between resource orchestration and the stage of ecosystem development was identified. Social/Management Contribution: The importance of the orchestration role, as well as the presence of an orchestrating actor, was emphasized, and a framework of analysis on the orchestration of resources in innovation ecosystems was proposed.