Evolutionary Stages and Paths of Innovation Networks in Industrial Clusters: Case Study of Nanchong Silk-Spinning Garment Industry Cluster (SSGIC)

The article aims to explore the evolutionary stages and paths of an innovation network in industrial cluster through case studying of Nanchong SSGIC in China. After reviewing the structure of the innovation network in industrial cluster, the article considers that the industrial cluster innovation network could be divided into three stages (the initial formation stage, the aggregation development stage, and the coordinated development stage) and probes different evolutionary paths based on the perspective of network structure characteristics and hub enterprises. Through the case analysis of the Nanchong SSGIC, the results show that (1) the evolutionary stages which be divided by this article could be well used in the analysis of the development stage of the Nanchong SSGIC innovation network; (2) based on the structural characteristics of the innovation network and the development of hub enterprises in Nanchong SSGIC, moving forward according to the path E is a good choice; (3) the strong support of the governments is an important guarantee force for the evolution of the cluster innovation network; (4) and a clear understanding of the characteristics of the evolutionary stages and paths of the Nanchong SSGIC innovation network is important for guiding the development of the cluster. The findings provide a valuable reference for research in relevant fields, especially for the study of traditional industrial clusters in developing countries.