University Challenge? Innovation Policy and SMEs in Welsh Economic Development Policy

Abstract

There is a clear research issue for Wales regarding the roles and interactions of government policy, HEIs, SMEs and the creation and dissemination of innovation. A study of the views of key policy makers concerning innovation and entrepreneurship in Wales is undertaken, especially with regard to the development of innovation within SMEs and the policy implications for economic regeneration. The role of a variety of actors (including users and suppliers) is considered, as is the impact of networks of SMEs linked together in patterns of cooperation and affiliation. From the results and the analysis of interviews, key points of significance to innovation, entrepreneurship, higher education and economic regeneration policy making in Wales are reported.