A review and comparative study of innovation policy and knowledge transfer: An Anglo-French perspective

In Europe, knowledge transfer between industry and higher education underachieves when compared directly with the United States and Japan. Europe is usually considered among the best world performers in terms of research capacity, but this potential often fails to transform into innovative products and services and the potential contribution to economic growth is lost. Despite this shortfall in knowledge transfer, academia enjoys strong industrial links across Europe and can demonstrate high numbers of enduring industrial relationships. This paper draws on research and policy literature from the UK and French channel regions to present the respective regional innovation and economic policy in an attempt to frame why this shortfall in knowledge transfer exists. Regional development is considered within a European, national and regional context. Innovation and knowledge transfer are positioned as economic development factors, and are described through the approaches and activities of the regions.