ELITE NETWORKS AND THE SHAPING OF OPEN INNOVATION IN UKRAINE: RETHINKING INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE IN WARTIME
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17533228Keywords:
open innovation, elite networks, innovation resilience, cross-sectoral collaboration, policy reform.Abstract
The role of elite networks in shaping the adoption and governance of open innovation (OI) in Ukraine during wartime has been examined. Using qualitative interviews with government, academic, and business elites, this study investigates how global OI models are translated into context-specific practices, mediating institutional change, policy reform, and cross-sector collaboration. Findings highlight the dual role of elites as facilitators and gatekeepers, the persistence of regional inequalities, and the repurposing of Soviet-era structures for innovation purposes. The study demonstrates that elite agency is central to Ukraine’s innovation resilience but underscores the need for inclusive and accountable policy to ensure equitable access to innovation benefits.
References
Chesbrough, H. (2006). Open Innovation: The New Imperative for Creating and Profiting from Technology. Harvard Business School Press.
Dahlander, L., Gann, D. M., & Sandström, C. (2021). How open is innovation? Res Policy, 50(1), 104–112.
Engelen, E. (2015). Elite power and economic crises. J Econ Issues, 49(2), 441–448.
Ipa-Muşa, O., (2024). Elites and innovation policy translation in post-socialist states. Innov Policy Pract, 6(1), 23–41.
Brenner, N. (1999). New State Spaces. Oxford University Press.
Fairfield, T. (2015). Private wealth and public power in post-socialist transitions. World Dev, 66, 345–357.
Savage, M., & Williams, K. (2008). Elites: Remembered in Sociology. Routledge.
