Innovation in peripheral areas: insights and future directions

The geography of innovation investigates local elements that contribute to territorial innovation by focusing on the geographic dimension of innovative processes. Emerging studies emphasise the relevance of peripheral areas, which have traditionally been seen as less innovative due to infrastructure deficiencies. This systematic literature review (SLR) examines innovation patterns in these areas by analysing 77 peer-reviewed articles published between 2003 and 2024. Using a 2-by-2 matrix structure, we classified enabling and constraining factors at both the local and firm levels. Geographic isolation and deficits in digital infrastructure are identified as barriers, whereas public-private partnerships, local identity, and cooperation act as enablers of innovation. This study provides policymakers and firms with insights into how to support innovation in peripheral areas while also integrating local identity with technological advances. Beyond digital innovation, the study also highlights the importance of social, organizational, and tradition-based forms of innovation that leverage local identity and heritage practices.