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R&D cooperation in SMEs: the direct effect and the moderating role of human capital

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  • Cantabene, Claudia
  • grassi, iacopo

Abstract

We analyze the determinants of R&D cooperation for SMEs in Italy. We introduce in the literature human capital as one of the main determinants of R&D cooperation, concentrating on its moderating role, and specifically focusing on the high-tech sector. Using an extremely rich dataset, we improve the literature, building robust explanatory variables, and disaggregating the cooperation by partner. We find that human capital facilitates cooperation, but its moderating role depends on the type of disaggregation and/or the partner.

Suggested Citation

  • Cantabene, Claudia & grassi, iacopo, 2018. "R&D cooperation in SMEs: the direct effect and the moderating role of human capital," MPRA Paper 87925, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:87925
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    3. Afcha, S. & García-Quevedo, J. & Mas-Verdú, F., 2023. "Gaining or losing PhDs: What are the effects on firms' linkages with universities?," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 186(PA).
    4. Zhang, Zhongqingyang & Zhu, Huiming & Zhou, Zhongbao & Zou, Kai, 2022. "How does innovation matter for sustainable performance? Evidence from small and medium-sized enterprises," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 153(C), pages 251-265.
    5. Yang, Siying & Wang, Wenzhi & Ding, Tao, 2023. "Intelligent transformation and sustainable innovation capability: Evidence from China," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 55(PB).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    R&D cooperation; subsidy; firm behavior; human capital; moderating effect;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • C25 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions; Probabilities
    • H32 - Public Economics - - Fiscal Policies and Behavior of Economic Agents - - - Firm
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D

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