Abstract

Several classes of inequalities have emerged as a consequence of the territorial polarization generated by the knowledge-based economy. Place-based policies implemented so far have demonstrated scarce effects in leveraging the underlying potential of left-behind places. In this paper, we explore whether social enterprises can be the actors of a rejuvenated innovation policy able to convey the value of knowledge and innovation to society. Despite their weak technological endowments, social enterprises, through their territorial distributive patterns and organizational characteristics, represent an installed entrepreneurial base that can be targeted by a new generation of inclusive innovation policies.

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