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Science, technology and innovation (STI) parks have become vital engines of social and economic development, supporting the creation, diffusion and application of knowledge and technologies.
As a key component of national innovation systems, they link research and academic institutions with industries, entrepreneurs, investors and governments. By doing so, they facilitate innovations that address national development challenges, support the competitive upgrading of industries, and ultimately strengthen the country’s overall innovation ecosystem.
Policy frameworks shape outcomes
The effectiveness of STI parks is primarily shaped by the policy and institutional frameworks within which they operate.
Their impact depends on how effectively they are embedded within broader innovation systems and aligned with national development strategies. They should be positioned as instruments for implementing science, technology and innovation policies – not as standalone projects.
Adaptive frameworks are key to long-term impact
For STI parks to unlock their full potential as catalysts for sustainable economic transformation, policy and institutional frameworks must be adaptive and responsive to rapid technological changes, evolving market demands and the expectations of diverse stakeholders.
Drawing on successful international experience across diverse economic and institutional contexts, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has prepared these policy guidelines in the style of a toolkit to support policymakers in developing countries in designing and implementing such frameworks.
This policy toolkit was prepared under the UNCTAD project Science, Technology and Innovation Parks for Sustainable Development: Building Expertise in Policy and Practice in Selected Asian and African Countries.
The project is financed by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Sub-fund under the United Nations Peace and Development Fund.
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