Structural conditions for dynamic innovation networks: a review of eight European Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems

In this paper we investigate the organisation and functioning of the formal AKS and how it can support or inhibit innovative bottom-up approaches to knowledge co-creation and social/joint learning. We have investigated how the main actors interact within their respective innovation systems and how they are influenced by various institutional characteristics. Using an Innovation System matrix the main enablers and barriers with regard to collective action have been categorized. The paper presents a comparative analysis of the different types of Agricultural Knowledge Systems within eight different European countries (England, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands and Switzerland). Results show how the knowledge infrastructure, existing rules and regulations, network structures, innovation capabilities and market structures differ from country to country. And how these institutional determinants can both support or inhibit joint learning and bottom-up innovation projects.