Apoyo público e innovación a nivel de firmas

Abstract

This article intends to contribute to the analyses of the effects of public policies on innovation at the firm level, based on the case of a small developing economy (Uruguay). It studies the relation between public support and the probability of innovating at the market level, introducing a lag between support and innovation. The econometric analysis uses binomial Probit models with Heckman sampling bias correction. The article concludes that public support matters for innovation at the market level, whether by stimulating innovation or by facilitating it in already innovative firms.  Moreover, the innovation activities of Uruguayan firms receiving public support do not seem to require a long time to develop. Finally, it is suggested that the relation between firm internationalization and the probability of innovating be further studied.