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inclusive outcomes is critical. Either shaping the mandates of existing institutions or creating new institutions is a challenge for governments. The role of the state is therefore central in this regard.
The starting point for policymakers is to define inclusive outcomes, followed by assessing alignment of current institutional arrangement with inclusive outcomes. The system of innovation, at the technological, sectoral, regional, and national level, emerged as a lens to deliver inclusive outcomes. Inclusive or not, innovation happens within a system. Participation of the currently excluded groups was noted to be important for innovation. They offer additional capacities and capabilities for innovation, while technology offers opportunities to scale the participation.
Conclusions
The difference between inclusive innovation and innovation for inclusive development is immaterial. The key is clearly defining inclusive outcomes, which must be looked at on a regular basis. While the important role of governance is clear, policymakers will need to experiment with different governance models to see which work best for certain inclusive outcomes.
The literature is unclear on the best starting point for policymakers. Inclusivity can be on the input and the output side of the innovation process. The input side ensures participation in developing innovation, while the output side ensures that technology, products and services cater for all in society. The input side requires capabilities for innovation, which take time to acquire. Further research is required, with a focus on finding the optimal balance for policymakers to consider.
Supplementary materials: No supplementary material. Statement on data availability: No data availability as it
is a desktop study.
funding: Not applicable.
declaration of interest: No interest to declare. author’s contribution: Single-authored paper. appendices: Not applicable.
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