Network centrality, proximity and organizational innovation performance in megaprojects: the moderating role of network closure

Purpose This study examines the associations of network centrality and multidimensional proximity with organizational innovation performance in China's megaproject collaboration networks, as well as the moderating role of network closure, within a unified “centrality-proximity-local structure” framework. Design/methodology/approach Using data from China's Tien-yow Jeme Civil Engineering Prize and associated patent records, the study constructs megaproject technological innovation collaborative networks and empirically tests the proposed hypotheses with negative binomial regression. Findings The findings reveal that degree and betweenness centrality are positively associated with organizational innovation performance, whereas closeness centrality is not significantly associated with organizational innovation performance. Geographical and social proximity have positive associations, while organizational proximity has a negative association. Network closure works as a differentiated moderator rather than a uniform amplifier or dampener. Regional heterogeneity analysis further shows that the negative association of organizational proximity is statistically significant only in developed regions. Originality/value This study contributes theoretically by examining the distinct associations of network position and relational distance with organizational innovation performance, while identifying the asymmetric relationships and boundary conditions created by local network structure in megaproject collaboration networks. In practice, it provides guidance on strengthening brokerage, calibrating closure and reducing organizational homophily.