CONFIGURATIONAL ANALYSIS OF PROXIMITIES IN INNOVATION ALLIANCES

Alliances have become a critical factor for innovation development. However, the lack of proximity between partners, which goes beyond the geographical facet, can influence alliance' outcomes. Despite this understanding, little is known about the interrelationship of proximities in innovation alliances. This research aims to underscore which proximities' combinations lead to exploration and exploitation alliances. To achieve this goal, we conducted a survey with 174 high-tech companies and adopted the method of Comparative Qualitative Analysis (QCA). The results underline the exploration alliances reliance on social, cognitive, or institutional proximity with physically close partners. Furthermore, exploitation alliances are dependent on cognitive and social proximity, in addition to the absence of organizational proximity. We conclude that alliances innovative orientation does not differ across all proximities dimensions and we highlight the relevance of social ties.