What are gazelles?
This following is taken from the mini-study framework.
1. Background
Fast growing companies, the so-called “gazelles”, are considered as a driving force for competitiveness, innovation and employment. However, empirical evidence suggests that the majority of new firms neither innovate nor grow, nor they even intend to do so. For example, in Finland only about 5-10% of new firms can be considered as innovative[1]. This raises the question how the emergence of gazelles can be further fostered and what is the role of public policy in promoting the development of gazelles.
About
This mini-study is aimed at serving as input for an INNO-Views Workshop on gazelles, which took place in April 2007. In particular, the study sets the scene for the first part of the workshop, which will focus on the role and importance of gazelles for innovation and competitiveness and the question how to further stimulate their development. The study focuses on the following points:
- Definition of the concept of gazelles, taking into account the available literature and the results of the Europe INNOVA innovation panel on gazelles.
- Presentation of the main findings on the economic relevance and importance of gazelles for competitiveness and innovation, based on available studies and economic analysis.
- Identification and analysis of potential drivers and barriers for the development of gazelles.
The study is now available online. We welcome your input, comments and ideas. PLEASE FEEL FREE to leave your comments here (or in other pages in this blog/other related blogs). Our team will try to response as soon as possible.
