Driving Pathways,Models,and Evolution of Regional Industry- University-Research Collaborative Innovation from the Perspective of Innovation Ecosystem
Zhang Dan1, Li Chong1, Zhang Jiahao1,2
1. Graduate School of Education,Dalian University of Technology,Dalian 116000,China; 2. School of Economics and Management,Dalian University of Technology,Dalian 116000,China
Abstract：Industry-university-research collaborative innovation is key to the innovation-driven development strategy and high-quality development.Integrating innovation ecosystems and coordination theories,this study constructs a“collaborative actors—collaborative elements—collaborative shocks”configuration model.Using provincial panel data from 2015 to 2023 and the dynamic QCA method,it explores the multiple concurrent causal pathways and dynamic evolution driving industry-university-research collaborative innovation.Findings show that no single factor constitutes an indispensable prerequisite;collaborative efficacy relies on the symbiotic coupling and synergistic interaction of multiple conditions.The evolution of condition-driven effects indicates digitalization and platformization are emerging as core developmental directions.Collaborative innovation is a conditional emergent outcome,the configuration of conditions exhibits convergent outcomes,forming five driving modes:system-boosted by multi-factor linkage,core-actors collaborative driving,weak-ecosystem-strong-government dominance,platform-empowered industrial propulsion,and environment-shaping university-research leadership.Temporally,pathways show no strong path dependence but adapt dynamically to macro-environmental changes.Spatially,they align with regional contexts,forming differentiated adaptive patterns across eastern,central,and western China.
2026, 
