The impact of funding on the 5G innovation ecosystem

Abstract This paper aims to extend the literature on the impact of research funding. Using 5G as a case study, this paper analyses how funding impacts the 5G innovation ecosystem. Using the functions of innovation systems as a framework, we analyse how several of these functions are influenced by research funding. The results a portion of the ecosystem only participates with funding. In addition the structure of the ecosystem is significantly altered. Research topics are also influenced by funding: some being mostly treated through funding. Funding has little to no impact on the publications that lead to patents.