Business of Networks

Robert Huggins, Senior Research Associate, Cardiff University, UK

• Contents: Introduction; The socio-economics of networks; Space, place and policy intervention; TECs and their network policies - the early years; Business co-operation and TECs - developing networks; The evolution of TECs and networked economic development; Evaluating network policies; The success and failure of implanted networks; Conclusions; References; Index.

’Business networks are a key element of the geography of local economic development. This book is one of the first to develop the theory of networks and match it with sound empirical analysis. Huggin’s makes a very important contribution to contemporary debates.’ Professor R.J. Bennett, University of Cambridge ’...very well worth reading ... an enlivening contribution to SME policy debates and understanding SME’s articulation with each other and the wider economy.’ International Small Business Journal ’This book is highly recommended for policy-makers and anyone interested in inter-firm networks and intervention policy for regional economical development. It gives a very good view on the position of public policy between government and firms, and the executive measures that try to increase regional competitiveness. The book makes the concept of inter-firm networks less volatile and gives thorough insight into the workings, the building and the logics of networks by means of intervention policy.’ Tijdschrift voor Economische en Sociale Geografie