Network Governance and Institutional Linkages for Strengthening Regional Innovation in Southeast Sulawesi

Regional innovation in Southeast Sulawesi continues to face significant barriers, particularly due to weak interregional and interinstitutional linkages. These fragmented connections hinder the formation of a resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystem. Drawing on comparative insights from South Sulawesi, this study adopts a qualitative approach to explore how such disconnections affect innovation dynamics and what strategies might reinforce collaborative capacity. Through in‐depth analysis supported by Social Network Theory, Innovation Ecosystem Theory, and Dynamic Capabilities Theory, the study identifies core challenges including institutional silos, uncoordinated policy implementation, and limited adaptive capacity within regional governance structures. While innovation policies are in place, their execution often suffers from misaligned priorities and insufficient coordination mechanisms. The study recommends the establishment of cross‐sector coordination platforms, integrated planning models, and adaptive institutional reforms as essential steps toward enhancing the region's innovation performance. These findings offer a context‐sensitive framework to support more effective innovation governance in Southeast Sulawesi.