In 1990–1996, the dominant paradigm centers on building knowledge-driven economies through national systems of innovation, emphasizing policy levers that connect research, education, and institutions to economic performance. Research trends highlight the importance of firm–university–government networks, absorptive capacity, and the diffusion of technology across regions, with methodological emphasis on system-level and cross-country comparisons. This period also foregrounds policy coordination and institutional reform as essential for sustaining competitiveness. Historical Significance: Endogenous growth concepts, reframed around knowledge creation, become central to understanding long-run productivity, linking macro growth with micro-innovation processes. The National Innovation Systems framework offers a holistic lens to assess national competitiveness, guiding reforms in R&D investment, skills, infrastructure, and regional development, and shaping international policy discussions for years to come.