Controlled environmental agriculture & the need for innovations networks
Abstract
This thesis explores which innovation systems that facilitates growth for Controlled
Environment Agriculture (CEA) companies and to successfully operate within the food
industry. This was done by interviewing several companies within the CEA industry as well
as relevant governmental organizations. The theoretical framework was constructed to
support the analysis and was based on several innovation systems theories as well as the
Multi Level Perspective (MLP). The research found that the CEA companies to a great extent
rely on several important actors within their different innovation systems to successfully
grow their business over time . Investors emerged as the single most important actor for CEA
firms, especially during the startup phase when funding was crucial for scaling up their
operations and achieving profitability. Collaboration with governmental institutions and
universities are also very important for CEA companies, both when it comes to financial and
research support but also as a platform for future working competence. Additionally, the
study identified a trend where younger companies rely on local and regional innovation
systems, while more mature companies seek engagement in larger global systems for
increased funding, knowledge, and support. In conclusion, the success of CEA companies is
closely tied to the involvement of the relevant actors within their innovation systems to
overcome the obstacles that the companies are facing where financial partners and
universities proved to be the most important actors in the startup phase, but where laws and
regulations were an important indirect factor for the companies.
Degree
Master 2-years
Other description
MSc in International Business and Trade
Collections
View/ Open
Date
2023-08-28Author
Törnblom, Andreas
Melkersson, Oscar
Keywords
Controlled Environmental Agriculture (CEA)
Food Production
Innovation Networks
Multi Level Perspective
Sustainability
Series/Report no.
2023:4
Language
eng