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Abstract

This study focuses on the dynamic transmission of knowledge and technology by the innovation cooperation in the technological innovation network of specialized and sophisticated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that produce novel and unique products in China. Based on their cooperation patent data from 2001 to 2020, uses the methods of spatial analysis, social network analysis and negative binomial regression analysis to explore the evolution of the network structure and impact of multi-dimensional proximity on innovation cooperation. The empirical results were as follows. First, the network density and clustering degree have been increasing, and the majority of innovation cooperation occurs between private enterprises mostly. Second, the innovation cooperation focus on the industry of telecommunication technology, electronic information, petrochemical and equipment manufacturing, and Shanghai has gradually replaced Beijing to be in the first position in the innovation network. Third, institutional, economic, social and technological proximity have significant positive effects while geographic proximity has a negative effect on the innovation network. This study contributes to the literature on innovation network and highlights the issues of proximity-related innovation cooperation decision, and sheds light upon the innovation practice of specialized and sophisticated SMEs in China.