Innovation and its enduring relevance in (the Journal of  ) Economic Geography : shifting perspectives on the semantics, actors, and spaces of entrepreneurial practices

Abstract For economic geographers, innovation provides explanations for success in regional development and enhanced understanding of processes of spatial concentration. Since the founding of the Journal of Economic Geography in 2001, shifts can be observed in economic geographic debates. Semantically, the term “innovation” has broadened and become more normative. As for the actors involved, a more diverse and inclusive understanding of entrepreneurship has emerged. And in terms of spatial concepts, a trend toward dynamic, multi- and translocal innovation spaces can be observed. I reflect upon how articles published in JOEG have advanced these debates and discuss omissions and future directions.