The contribution of students to regional economies: reframing the regional innovation systems approach

Abstract

The role of universities in regional development has grown significantly over the past two decades. One strand of analysis has been that of the university in regional innovation systems (RIS). However, the contribution of university students has largely been neglected. This special issue contributes to the RIS literature by unpacking the RIS concept through exploring this specific aspect of university engagement in regional economies. The nine papers collectively offer an understanding of the effects of student activity upon the knowledge, skill and entrepreneurial bases of regions. The papers provide evidence and analysis from Asia, Australia, Europe and North America.

Re-viewing entrepreneurial universities through alumni engagement

“…In this respect, it is increasingly acknowledged that graduates from entrepreneurship education not only serve as productive agents for entrepreneurship and innovation in the regional economy (e.g. Breznitz et al, 2019Breznitz et al, , 2022Eesley et al, 2016). In addition, they are co-creators of the vibrant and dynamic resources and competencies that create the very lifeblood of the entrepreneurial university (Baroncelli et al, 2022;El-Awad et al, 2022).…”