Determinants and performance of the quadruple helix model and the mediating role of civil society

• Published in: Technology in society 2023-11, Vol.75, p.102358, Article 102358
• Main Authors: González-Martinez, Paulina, García-Pérez-De-Lema, Domingo, Castillo-Vergara, Mauricio, Hansen, Peter Bent
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Civil society; Government policies; Human capital; Innovation; Quadruple helix; Social capital
• ISSN: 0160-791X; 1879-3274
• DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2023.102358

Civil society plays an essential role in regional innovation systems. It is considered fundamental for the success of innovation and the participation of civil society, social and human capital, and the part of public policies that can influence the generation of innovation. For this reason, this study aims to identify determining factors in a regional innovation model, considering civil society as a relevant component in the mediation of the process. To this end, we proposed a theoretical research model in which we empirically tested a partial structural equation model and a Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis using a sample of 233 Chilean quadruple helix relationship experts. The results have confirmed that successful cases of science, technology, and innovation public policies occur when there is greater citizen involvement and that human capital positively affects the participation of society and the development of innovation, among other relevant results. And from the fsQCA analysis, three solutions that generate innovation are configured. This research also provides relevant information for public decision-making and describes the influential role that local governments and civil society can play in innovation. •We addressed the importance of civil society in driving innovation in the quadruple helix model.•Public science, technology and innovation policies are more successful with greater citizen participation.•Human capital plays a vital role in the development of innovation.•Policymakers should encourage innovation and sustainable economic growth in the regional innovation ecosystem.•The study combines partial minimum structural equations and the qualitative comparative analysis of fuzzy sets.