Title: High-technology cluster evolution: a network analysis of Canada's Technology Triangle

Authors: Stephen Xingang Xu, Rod B. McNaughton

Addresses: Department of Management Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada. ' Department of Management Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada

Abstract: Clusters of high-technology firms are a significant influence on the competitiveness and innovativeness of regional economies. Knowledge transfer, interfirm networking and collective learning processes form the underlying dynamics that drive high-technology clusters to evolve over time. This research examines the evolution of the Waterloo Region Canada|s Technology Triangle (CTT) by analysing its TechMap™, a genealogical chart of the development of the cluster. The findings about the key characteristics of the evolution process of the CTT cluster have implications for theories of high-technology clusters, economic development policy and the managerial practices of firms in such clusters. They are also an important adjunct to understanding the internationalisation processes of the knowledge intensive start-ups that form the cluster.

Keywords: industrial clusters; internationalisation; network relationships; high technology firms; high tech firms; entrepreneurship; innovation management; knowledge transfer; interfirm networks; collective learning; Canada; economic development; knowledge intensive startups; small firms; SMEs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2006.010983

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2006 Vol.6 No.6, pp.591 - 608

Published online: 25 Sep 2006 *

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