Innovation in Manufacturing Industriesin the Colombian Caribbean Region

Abstract

This paper examines the determinants of innovation in manufacturing firms of the Colombian Caribbean region. We use a regression model that relates firm, sectors and region level variables and show the benefits derived from regional and business environments in explaining innovative performance. We show that some of the specific determinants of innovation mentioned in the international literature on the subject apply to the case of the Colombian Caribbean. We use data from the Fourth Survey of Innovation and Technological Development (EDIT IV), which includes information from more than 404 manufacturing firms. Finally, we present some suggestions for promoting innovation in the region.