The Impact of Proximity Forms on Knowledge, Learning and Innovation Processes in Sectors with Different Knowledge Bases: A Case Study of Eskişehir

Knowledge generation, knowledge access and learning are key factors in innovation processes. One of the factors that enables firms to access these factors is their proximity. Proximities which have both geographical and relational dimensions facilitate firms' access to knowledge and affects their innovation performance. Which types of proximities are more effective in which sectors has not yet been fully met with an answer in the literature. In this context, the aim of the research is to investigate the effects of types of proximities on knowledge, learning and innovation processes in the sectors operating in Eskişehir and whose knowledge bases are different from each other. In this research, in-depth interviewing technique was applied from qualitative research techniques. According to the findings obtained, the effect of types of closeness on innovation processes varies according to the sectors whose knowledge base is different. Based on these results, this study contributes both to the literature and to a new perspective on innovation policy