The Industrial Specialisation of Science and Technology Parks Through the Example of Zalazone Park

Abstract

Science and technology parks provide an integrated environment where industrial companies, service sector actors and R&D activities can operate in a coordinated way, fostering the development of innovation ecosystems as well as increasing the competitiveness of the region. The theoretical background of science and technology parks is presented to support this theme, highlighting industry specificities and their impacts. The aim of this thesis is to examine, through the example of ZalaZONE Park, the sectoral aspects of science and technology parks that play a crucial role in the development of cooperation between the actors operating in the Park. Since 2020, ZalaZONE Park has been a full member of the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP), which brings together science parks and innovation centers from around the world. In this context, the industry and technology profile of the Park is compared with the data published by the IASP Global Survey 2022. The research is based on two main methodological approaches. Firstly, it groups the organizations operating in ZalaZONE Park according to their activities. Secondly, it classifies the actors according to their technological focus, revealing the correlations between industry and technological orientation. In the final analysis, the mapping of collaboration opportunities between the actors in the Park highlights the impact of sector specialization on the diversity of cooperation. The analysis of this theme will help other science and technology parks as well as innovation ecosystems to develop more effective strategies to increase their competitiveness. While research has typically defined industry orientation by focusing on technology, the present study adopts an analytical approach based on activity data and collaboration potential.