Política tecnológica y agentes del sistema regional de innovación. Impacto del V PM de I+D de la UE en las regiones espaõolas.

In this paper we analyse the impact of the Fifth EU R&D Framework Programme (1998-2002) in the Spanish regions, considering the characteristics of the respective regional systems of innovation. The starting theoretical framework is the interactive pattern of technological change where the interaction among the different phases of innovation processes and between actors involved is emphasized. The important role that firms play in this process is also underlined. This model links with the concept of regional innovation systems. The contextual character of technological innovation is furthermore highlighted as well as its importance for the effectiveness of technology policies that should respond to the necessities defined by the innovation system to which it is directed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]