+44-7897-074717Rapid Communication - Journal of Research in International Business and Management ( 2025) Volume 12, Issue 6
Published: 28-Dec-2025
Global innovation ecosystems refer to interconnected networks of firms, institutions, governments, and knowledge actors that collaborate across borders to create and commercialize innovation. This study examines the role of global innovation ecosystems in enhancing international business competitiveness and sustainable growth. It explores ecosystem structures, knowledge flows, and collaborative mechanisms that support innovation. The paper highlights challenges related to coordination, intellectual property protection, and cross-border governance. It also discusses the importance of digital platforms, policy support, and institutional alignment. By integrating innovation theory and international business perspectives, this study emphasizes that effective global innovation ecosystems enable firms to accelerate innovation, access global knowledge, and strengthen competitive advantage.
Global Innovation Ecosystems, International Innovation, Knowledge Networks, Collaborative Innovation, Global Competitiveness, Innovation Strategy
Global innovation ecosystems have emerged as critical drivers of competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected international business environment. Innovation is no longer confined within firm boundaries or national borders but is increasingly generated through collaborative networks that span multiple countries and institutions. These ecosystems enable firms to access diverse knowledge, resources, and capabilities that support continuous innovation and global market success. The globalization of innovation activities has transformed traditional innovation models. Firms increasingly collaborate with universities, research institutes, startups, suppliers, and governments across borders. Such collaboration enhances knowledge diversity and accelerates innovation processes. Global ecosystems foster creativity and technological advancement (Malecki, 2011).
Knowledge flows are central to the functioning of global innovation ecosystems. Cross-border exchange of ideas, technologies, and expertise supports learning and capability development. Firms that effectively manage knowledge flows gain access to cutting-edge innovations. Knowledge integration enhances competitive advantage. Digital technologies play a significant role in enabling global innovation ecosystems. Digital platforms facilitate collaboration, data sharing, and coordination among geographically dispersed actors. Technology reduces barriers to collaboration. Digital connectivity enhances innovation speed (de et al., 2022).
Institutional frameworks influence the development and effectiveness of global innovation ecosystems. Government policies related to education, research funding, and intellectual property protection shape ecosystem performance. Policy alignment supports ecosystem sustainability. Institutional support enhances innovation outcomes. Intellectual property management presents a major challenge within global innovation ecosystems. Firms must balance knowledge sharing with protection of proprietary assets. Effective IP governance supports trust and collaboration. Balanced governance enhances ecosystem stability (Rossi et al., 2022).
Cultural diversity within global innovation ecosystems affects collaboration and knowledge exchange. Differences in communication styles, organizational norms, and risk attitudes influence innovation processes. Cultural awareness enhances collaboration effectiveness (Oh et al., 2016). Cultural diversity can be a source of creativity. Global innovation ecosystems support entrepreneurship and startup development. Startups benefit from access to global networks, funding, and expertise. Ecosystem participation accelerates startup growth. Entrepreneurial activity strengthens innovation capacity.
Competition and collaboration coexist within global innovation ecosystems. Firms collaborate with partners while competing in global markets. Managing coopetition requires strategic alignment and governance. Effective balance enhances ecosystem performance.
Sustainability considerations are increasingly integrated into global innovation ecosystems. Innovation efforts focus on addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource efficiency. Sustainable innovation supports long-term value creation. Ecosystem alignment with sustainability goals enhances global impact (Zahra & Nambisan, 2011).
Global innovation ecosystems play a vital role in driving international business competitiveness and sustainable growth. This study highlights that collaboration, knowledge exchange, and supportive institutional frameworks enhance innovation outcomes. Firms that strategically engage in global innovation ecosystems are better positioned to succeed in dynamic global markets.
de Vasconcelos Gomes, L. A., dos Santos, M. G., & Facin, A. L. F. (2022). Uncertainty management in global innovation ecosystems. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 182, 121787.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Malecki, E. J. (2011). Connecting local entrepreneurial ecosystems to global innovation networks: open innovation, double networks and knowledge integration. International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 14(1), 36-59.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Oh, D. S., Phillips, F., Park, S., & Lee, E. (2016). Innovation ecosystems: A critical examination. Technovation, 54, 1-6.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Rossi, M., Chouaibi, J., Graziano, D., & Festa, G. (2022). Corporate venture capitalists as entrepreneurial knowledge accelerators in global innovation ecosystems. Journal of Business Research, 142, 512-523.
Zahra, S. A., & Nambisan, S. (2011). Entrepreneurship in global innovation ecosystems. AMS review, 1(1), 4-17.