The catalyst roles of clusters in the relationship between open innovation and Digitalisation: A systematic review and research agenda within SME context

The practice of cluster has been widely applied for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) innovation during the last two decades. However, its application is complicated due to the challenges and issues in low and middle-income countries. All SMEs are expected to benefit from the unique learning and innovative opportunities in a cluster. A systematic review and research agenda on how open innovation in a cluster could stimulate digitalisation in SMEs has not been addressed. Hence, this study seeks to conduct a review of existing literature on the role of clusters in fostering SMEs’ digitalisation through the practices of open innovation. The research-specific objectives are to examine SMEs’ open innovation practice, analyse the benefits and assess a cluster’s intermediate role in digitalisation within the context of SMEs. The paper aims to provide a framework for future research by presenting propositions based on published peer-reviewed articles between January 2016 and December 2021. The study will inspire policymakers to formulate policies that directly or indirectly support clusters’ development and promote SMEs’ digitalisation through OI.