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The dynamics of local innovation networking are under-researched in the global South at large. While the concept of a National Innovation System (NIS) has existed in the South African policy domain for two decades, there is little, if any, empirical evidence of innovation networking at the local level. This paper interrogates the spatiality of network linkages and the networking behaviour of innovative enterprises in rural, as well as urban settings in South Africa. This research, drawn from two unrelated studies, demonstrates that innovative enterprises rely on a broad network of actors. Although local network embeddedness has a particular function, external knowledge is significant for novel innovation. A lack of local governmental support for innovation is also observed. The research provides compelling insights from the South. It is argued the notion of multi-scalar innovation networks is valid for South Africa. This is an alternative view on innovation networking in peripheral areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the relationship between innovation activity and firm size in the South African context. Based on data from the National Innovation Survey (2002-2004) the paper looks in particular at the nature of innovation by small, medium- and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs). The main finding is that the innovation rate of SMMEs is relatively high, with small enterprises reporting the highest innovation rate. A limited dependent variable regression, however, determines a negative statistically significant relationship between the probability to innovate and firm size. SMMEs are therefore not more innovative than large enterprises in South Africa. This paper identifies innovative entrepreneurs and micro enterprises as important foci for entrepreneurship and innovation policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]