Innovation in high-technology SMMEs: the case of the new media sector in Cape Town

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Periodical article

Title:	Innovation in high-technology SMMEs: the case of the new media sector in Cape Town
Authors:	Booyens, Irma Molotja, Neo Phiri, Madalitso Z.
Year:	2013
Periodical:	Urban Forum (ISSN 1874-6330)
Volume:	24
Issue:	2
Pages:	289-306
Language:	English
Geographic term:	South Africa
Subjects:	information technology small enterprises technological change innovations
External link:	https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12132-012-9168-7
Abstract:	Creative industries are increasingly attracting the interest of academics and policymakers around the world. Policy enthusiasm is also directed in many countries towards developing knowledge-intensive or high-technology sectors. The new media sector is considered an innovative growth sector which holds potential for emerging countries. This case study examines innovation in new media firms (small, medium and micro enterprises: SMMEs), situated in Cape Town, South Africa. The study found that these firms are dynamic in terms of technological innovation. However, their innovation activities tend to be incremental and localized. Furthermore, various barriers limit their innovation enhancement and growth prospects. Public policy can support new media firms in terms of access to new business development funding and programmes supporting small enterprise innovation, improved design education and network opportunities. Bibliogr., notes, sum. [Journal abstract, edited]