Title: Technology parks and knowledge-based development in Mexico: Tecnologico de Monterrey CIT² experience

Authors: Arturo Molina, Jose Manuel Aguirre, Monica Breceda, Claudia Cambero

Addresses: Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Direccion de Parques Tecnologicos, Vicerrectoria Asociada de Emprendimiento, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849 Mexico. ' Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Direccion de Parques Tecnologicos, Vicerrectoria Asociada de Emprendimiento, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849 Mexico. ' Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Direccion de Parques Tecnologicos, Vicerrectoria Asociada de Emprendimiento, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849 Mexico. ' Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Direccion de Parques Tecnologicos, Vicerrectoria Asociada de Emprendimiento, Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L., 64849 Mexico

Abstract: Technology and knowledge-driven innovation are critical for wealth creation and economic vitality. Regional innovation capability depends mainly on the strength of the basic innovation infrastructure. Specially designed tools, such as technology transfer centres and science and technology parks, have rapidly expanded in the last several years proving their effectiveness to boost regional development. Mexico|s competitiveness is facing a challenging moment in time and a transition into a knowledge-based economy is imperative in order to remain competitive in the future times. As a key player in any regional strategy, the Tecnologico de Monterrey, a private national university, has devised a plan to set-up science and technology parks on several of its Campi. Four development models have been introduced according to the contextual characteristics of Mexico and its regions. The CIT² (Centre for Innovation and Technology Transfer) is a technology park that started in April 2005, and has been growing with around 22 technology-based local and global companies added to Monterrey region|s economic landscape through this facility and operational model combination. This successful case is analysed in this study case using the |action-research| methodology.

Keywords: knowledge-based economy; technology parks; technology transfer; action research; business acceleration; technology-based incubation; regional development; Mexico; economic development; incubators; regional innovation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEIM.2011.038859

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management, 2011 Vol.13 No.2, pp.199 - 224

Published online: 30 Sep 2014 *

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