IMPROVING CONDITIONS FOR INNOVATION POLICY IN NORTH MACEDONIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46763/Keywords:
innovation, ecosystem, competitiveness, MacedoniaAbstract
The innovation ecosystem represents a complex network of institutions, companies, policies, and individuals who jointly create the conditions for the development of new technologies, entrepreneurship, and economic competitiveness. North Macedonia, as a small transitional economy, has gradually been developing its innovation potential over the past decade through the introduction of government programs for supporting start-ups, strengthening the IT industry, establishing business incubators, and stimulating research activity within academic institutions.
Despite these positive trends, the system faces significant challenges, such as limited investment in research and innovation, insufficient private capital, and the emigration of highly qualified professionals. This paper analyses the structural elements of the innovation ecosystem in North Macedonia, current achievements, and potential directions for improvement.
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