Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Technology Studies Research Group, Department of Technology Development Studies (DTDS), Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), Tehran, Iran.
2
Department of Political Science and Law, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran.
3
Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agricultural Management, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the governance model, policy-making, and innovation evaluation in Germany, particularly the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (Mittelstand companies). The research method was a systematic review, employing the seven-step meta-synthesis approach by Sandelowski et al for searching, storing, refining, and utilizing information sources. The primary research question was identifying the governance mechanisms of Germany's innovation system and the position of Mittelstand companies within it. From the initial search, 341 articles were identified, and after multi-stage evaluation, 54 works were selected for in-depth analysis. The findings were organized into eight conceptual categories: 1) Research and development infrastructure centered on research-innovation synergy (universities, research institutions, intellectual property systems); 2) Government policies (national innovation strategy, funding programs, regulatory frameworks); 3) Industry-university collaboration (technology transfer offices, joint projects); 4) Innovation ecosystems (regional clusters, innovation hubs, local integration); 5) Support for startups and Mittelstand companies (incubators, accelerators, venture capital); 6) Institutional division of labor at federal, state, and local levels (Fraunhofer institutes, technology transfer, direct investment); 7) International collaboration (EU programs, global partnerships); 8) Focus on sustainability (green technologies, fourth-generation industries). Germany's innovation system, as a dynamic ecosystem, facilitates business evolution and enhances global competitiveness by strengthening collaboration among government, industry, and academia. Mittelstand companies play a key role through targeted support, such as incubators and investment, and integration into innovation clusters. This system, emphasizing research-industry synergy, offers a successful model for innovation policy-making. The findings highlight the need to strengthen innovation infrastructure, support SMEs, and promote sustainable technologies. This model can guide developing countries, especially in designing supportive policies for innovative businesses.
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