Regional innovation ecosystem as a facilitator of digital transformation: evidence from Pacto Alegre (Brazil)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5585/2024.25143Keywords:
ecosystems, digital transformation, knowledge, Covid-19, quadruple helix.Abstract
Purpose: The study aims to analyze the perception of quadruple helix actors in a regional innovation ecosystem regarding their contributions to the digital transformation of companies.
Methodology/approach: In-depth interviews were conducted with key actors from Pacto Alegre and with companies operating in the ecosystem, as well as document analysis of their projects focusing on the theme of digital transformation.
Originality/value: The study contributes by showing that regional ecosystems can function as facilitators in the process of the digital transformation of companies, corroborating the discussion that points to the need to integrate these two themes.
Findings: Traditional companies are at an early stage of digital transformation, considering the Covid-19 pandemic an accelerating factor in this process, forcing entrepreneurs to adopt digital technologies. To this end, the ecosystem provides a favorable environment for the exchange of knowledge, inter-organizational relationships, and learning by companies, enabling them to reduce the distance for digital transformation. From its projects, Pacto Alegre has generated direct and indirect impacts on the digital transformation of companies.
Theoretical/methodological contributions: The paper provides an analytical structure that links the themes of digital transformation and regional ecosystems and contains an empirical study of their application in the context of an emerging country and with a focus on low-tech companies.
Social/management contributions: The practical implications of the present study provide elements for organizing and improving Pacto Alegre's actions as a facilitator of digital transformation, as well as a basis for different ecosystems.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Leonardo Caliari, Camila Coletto, Roberto dos Santos Donato, Fernanda Maciel Reichert, Daniela Callegaro de Menezes
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