THE IMPACT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ON TRENDS IN REGIONAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47390/SPR1342V5I9Y2025N05Keywords:
research and development (R&D), regional socio-economic development, innovations, university role, sustainable development, investment impact, human capital, digital transformation.Abstract
This article examines the impact of research and development (R&D) on regional socio-economic development trends through a systematic literature review. The analysis of empirical and theoretical studies from prestigious international journals in recent years, conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, reveals that R&D investments stimulate economic growth, contributing 0.15-0.20% to GDP; however, this effect is contingent upon geographic disparities, human capital, and policy factors. Universities and research institutions enhance regional dynamics through the knowledge spillover effect ("effect of knowledge spillover" – the process by which research outcomes, technologies, or new knowledge generated by one institution, company, or university disseminate to other institutions, enterprises, or the regional economy, thereby fostering their innovations, productivity, and economic growth), playing a crucial role in post-pandemic recovery and sustainable development. The results affirm the positive influence of R&D in the context of global trends (digital transformation, environmental sustainability), while identifying gaps in developing countries. In conclusion, R&D serves as a primary driver of regional development, providing a foundation for shaping policy frameworks.
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