Innovation in Real Places by Dan Breznitz Summary

Innovation in Real Places challenges the Silicon Valley-centric innovation model, arguing communities should leverage existing strengths in global production chains rather than copying tech hubs. Breznitz presents strategies for localized prosperity through case studies, emphasizing innovation in manufacturing and distribution over high-tech R&D. The 2021 Financial Times bestseller combines economic analysis with actionable policy frameworks for regional development.

Policy makers, urban planners, and business leaders seeking alternatives to generic tech-led growth strategies will benefit most. It’s equally valuable for economists studying regional development and readers interested in equitable prosperity models beyond major innovation hubs. Breznitz’s clear examples make complex concepts accessible to non-specialists.

Yes – it’s been praised for debunking innovation myths while offering practical alternatives. The Financial Times named it a 2021 best book for its fresh perspective on economic resilience. Blinkist users highlight its actionable insights for community revitalization.

1. Reject one-size-fits-all innovation: Copying Silicon Valley often fails.
2. Leverage regional advantages: Focus on existing industrial capabilities.
3. Innovation phases matter: Prosperity comes from excelling in R&D, production, or distribution stages.
4. Equitable growth: Policies must address who benefits from innovation.

Breznitz argues success isn’t about disruptive tech breakthroughs but mastering specific phases of innovation processes. A region might thrive in manufacturing (Taiwan’s chip production) or distribution (Italian textile clusters) without leading in R&D.

Some argue it underestimates the role of digital infrastructure in modern development. Others note its manufacturing-focused examples may need adaptation for service-based economies. However, most praise its evidence-based challenge to conventional wisdom.

Unlike Richard Florida’s "creative class" theory, Breznitz prioritizes leveraging existing industrial ecosystems over attracting high-skilled migrants. He also rejects the assumption that R&D dominance equals economic success.

• Taiwan’s semiconductor manufacturing leadership without original chip designs
• Emilia-Romagna’s textile machinery cluster focusing on incremental improvements
• Israel’s shift from tech R&D to commercialization partnerships

The book suggests identifying underutilized assets (e.g., skilled workforces, transportation networks) and targeting niche roles in global supply chains. Pennsylvania’s steel towns could transition to specialized metal processing rather than chasing biotech startups.

• Tailored innovation metrics: Move beyond patent counts to measure production efficiency
• Stage-specific support: Help regions excel in their strongest innovation phase
• Workforce development: Align training with local industry needs rather than generic tech skills

Breznitz argues innovation policies often widen wealth gaps by favoring high-skilled workers. He advocates for strategies that create quality jobs across education levels, like Germany’s manufacturing apprenticeship systems.

With remote work dispersing talent pools and AI disrupting traditional industries, the book’s emphasis on adaptive regional strategies helps communities navigate economic uncertainty. Its framework assists in evaluating opportunities in automation and green energy transitions.