Fostering change through innovation: the role of in-novation intermediaries in realizing transitions to sustainability
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2025-08-03
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nl
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This thesis explores the role of innovation intermediaries in fostering social innovations that support sustainability transitions, employing Innofest as a case study. Addressing the research question ‘How do innovation intermediaries enable social innovations that support sustainability transitions?’, the study responds to the urgent need for more effective and impactful innovation practices in light of high failure rates and pressing environmental challenges. Drawing on the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) and an actor- and agency-oriented approach, the research examines Innofest's activities through a mixed-methods methodology, including semi-structured interviews, surveys, and participatory observation. Findings reveal that Innofest primarily acts as a connector, linking innovators with critical networks and resources, and as a supporter, providing real-life testing environments through Living Labs. It also takes on the role of a frontrunner by nurturing early-stage innovations and piloting new support models. While not actively seeking to disrupt dominant systems, Innofest indirectly fulfills the role of a toppler by enabling alternatives that may challenge the status quo. The study concludes that innovation intermediaries like Innofest play a critical role in reducing innovation failure, accelerating market readiness, and collectively advancing sustainability transitions through their strategic support of social innovation.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen