The knowledge network of biotech firms in Szeged – Biopolis revisited

Abstract

The concept of growth poles aimed to enhance and exploit the benefits arising from the geographical concentration of knowledge-intensive economic activities in Hungary. Based on research and development capabilities and economic and infrastructural characteristics, several cities were identified as growth poles and it was assumed that these cities and their key sectors could promote regional economic growth. Under the Biopolis programme, Szeged was chosen as a growth pole and biotechnology as a key industry. However, despite the area’s outstanding features, the results of the Biopolis programme fell far short of expectations.

The aim of this study is to reflect on the objectives and results of the Biopolis programme and to analyse the patterns of collaboration in the knowledge network of biotechnology companies in Szeged. Our results suggest that despite the relatively dense local knowledge network, companies with higher innovation and export potential are less integrated into it. In spite of the greater support and attention for biotechnology in Szeged, biotech firms do not appear to be able to take advantage of the geographical concentration and favourable local conditions. Therefore, the importance of biotechnology as a key sector in this area should be treated with caution and the implementation of the Biopolis programme may require some criticism.