The centrality of regions in corporate knowledge flows and the implications for Smart Specialisation Strategies

This study examines the structural and geographical patterns of knowledge flows in order to investigate the centrality of regions. It exploits patent citations and combines social networks analysis and graphs theory to assess the importance of regions as places for knowledge sourcing and creation from the perspective of firms. It offers a novel applied approach to help regions position themselves in a technological space and integrate micro-economic insights into the design of strategies for Smart Specialisation. The analysis includes more than 400 worldwide regions and the patent applications of 1000 research and development-leading firms at the European Patent Office.