The Role of Capabilities in Linkage Formation and Actor Positioning within Innovation Ecosystems: A Case Study of Iran's Vaccine Industry

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Technology Management and Entrepreneurship, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

2 Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

10.22111/innoeco.2025.50826.1151

Abstract

This study explores the role of capabilities in actor positioning and linkage formation within innovation ecosystems, by investigation the Iran’s vaccine industry during the COVID-19 pandemic as a case. It examines how capabilities shape actors’ strategic positioning, the quantity and quality of their linkages, and their participation in key ecosystem activities. The research adopts a case-study approach, incorporating qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative content analysis of data from 20 in-depth interviews with experts, researcher own observations as vaccine expert, and national and international reports. The findings reveal key capabilities, such as research and development (R&D), supply chain management, and financial resources, significantly impact actors’ roles and linkage dynamics in the innovation ecosystem. Actors with advanced strategic and operational capabilities often assume pivotal roles, establishing high-quality linkages and contributing effectively to joint value creation. The study underscores the need for redesigning the vaccine innovation ecosystem by fostering public-private collaboration, incentivizing private sector engagement, and facilitating access to advanced technologies. It highlights the government’s role as an orchestrator in strengthening regulatory frameworks, enabling actor interactions, and supporting operational, strategic, and dynamic capabilities through targeted funding and shared infrastructure. Additionally, establishing knowledge-sharing networks and international collaboration platforms is recommended to accelerate innovation and enhance ecosystem cohesion.
Theoretically, the research enriches strategic management literature by emphasizing the alignment of actor capabilities with innovation ecosystem goals and interdependencies. It provides actionable insights for improving innovation ecosystems, particularly in strategic industries such as vaccine development, and offers a foundation for future research on complex and evolving ecosystems. This study ultimately contributes to understanding how capabilities influence innovation ecosystem structure interactions and success.

Keywords

Innovation EconomicEcosystem Studies
Volume 5, Issue 1
January 2025
Pages 127-155

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