This report discusses how the macro-innovation eco-ecosystem is composed by a variety of
interconnected micro-innovation eco-systems, mutually reinforcing each other and making the whole
“territorial” system successful. The spatial configuration of these microinnovation ecosystems on the
urban scale has been specifically investigated, thus leading to theorizing that the Innovation District may
act as enabler for place-based innovation, contributing by its specific spatial configuration to enable the
location of a particular type of innovators who are mainly responsible for triggering sustainable urban
regeneration dynamics.
This case study allows for the identification of the key success factors in the Boston regional innovation
ecosystem by focusing on different types of innovation hotspots active in the area, operating on
different spatial and economic scales. This case targets a variety of different innovation hotspots across
the wider metropolitan area, including the cities of Boston and Cambridge.