Orchestrating innovation networks: The case of innovation brokers in the agri-food sector

Abstract

This explorative study of network orchestration processes conducted by innovation brokers addresses new issues in bridging small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and research institutes in innovation networks. The study includes four in-depth case studies in the agri-food sector from different countries: the Netherlands, Germany and France. A guiding research question is how innovation brokers successfully orchestrate innovation networks of SMEs. Based on literature research and cases, we conclude that the innovation broker may have great added value for innovation networks with divergent organizations, especially when the innovation broker takes the lead in three network orchestration functions: innovation initiation, network composition and innovation process management. In addition, the case findings offer best practices of innovation brokers for these orchestration processes.