Critical factors for participation in global innovation networks. Empirical evidence from the Mexican nanotechnology sector

To face the new challenges of globalization, research institutions and companies are adopting new approaches in innovation processes. Corporations no longer rely on a single, linear innovation structure. In recent years, in several countries, institutions and companies have implemented innovation through global innovation networks (GINs) to launch new products in the market ahead of competitors. Nevertheless, there is scant literature examining the main factors involved in GIN participation practices. To address this gap, this paper used the case of nanoscience research centers in Mexico. The aim of this research was to assess the degree to which critical innovation factors enable Mexican research centers and institutes of nanotechnology to participate in GINs. First, data were gathered from questionnaires sent by e-mail to researchers in research institutions; then, correlation and regression analysis were used to find the relations among variables. The results showed that critical factors such as human resource competencies in innovation, open innovation and technology transfer skills have a direct influence on the participation of Mexican research centers and institutions in GINs.