Determinants of Competitiveness in European Regions: A Test of the Emerald Model

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of the dimensions of the emerald model on regional competitiveness and contributes to the competitiveness literature in moving ahead to establishing causal links with its determinants. Data is collected from 2000 to 2011 for 97 NUTS-1 regions in Europe, and multiple regression analysis is performed. The results suggest that in the long term (eight-year time period) ownership attractiveness is the most influential dimension of the model, followed by talent attractiveness, educational attractiveness, R&D and innovation attractiveness, cluster attractiveness in technology & knowledge-based sectors, and environmental attractiveness. Cluster attractiveness in all sectors does not have a significant impact, while knowledge dynamics has a negative impact on competitiveness.