Work

What drives the development of university science parks in China: from the perspective of evolutionary economic geography

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: University science parks are an important arena and driver for science and technology innovation and development. In this study, we developed the theoretical framework for evolutionary economic geography, which considers the agglomeration effect, path dependence, spin-off process, and local institutions. Next, we investigated the development model and driving mechanism of university science parks using China as a typical case study. We identified three types of development models—university-driven, university–government cooperation, and local dependence—for China’s university science parks. The theoretical contributions of this study lie in constructing an analytical framework for university science parks from the perspective of evolutionary economic geography, thereby expanding the global knowledge system of science and technology park development. In addition, this study supports the development and decision-making surrounding university science parks in China and other countries.

Source: Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05839-z

Authors: Yixin Zhu, Zhe Cheng

Institutions: Xi'an Jiaotong University, Beijing Union University

Language: English

Topic: University-Industry-Government Innovation Models

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,890