Who innovates with whom and why? An analysis of the inter-regional enterprise-university-research institute cooperative network supporting climate change mitigation

Purpose This study examines the formation mechanisms of China’s inter-regional enterprise-university-research institute cooperative networks in climate change mitigation technologies (CCMTs), focusing on the combined influence of multi-dimensional proximity and university participation. Design/methodology/approach Using patent data on CCMTs in green buildings, greenhouse gas management, green energy and green transportation, these cooperative networks are constructed and their evolution analyzed. The quadratic assignment procedure is used to assess the effects of multi-dimensional proximity and university participation. Findings The findings reveal increasing polarization in China’s cooperative networks, with Beijing gaining greater control and key patentees like State Grid increasingly focusing on self-sufficiency. The technological focus shifted from superconducting electric elements and battery energy storage to high-voltage direct current. Multi-dimensional proximity and university participation positively influence network formation but vary over time. Geographical proximity and university participation show an inverted U-shaped trend, while social proximity intensifies, and technological proximity follows a U-shaped pattern. The moderating effect of university participation on geographical proximity shifts from negative to positive while positively moderating social and technological proximity during certain periods. Originality/value This study contributes to understanding China’s inter-regional enterprise-university-research institute cooperative innovation networks within CCMTs by elucidating their evolutionary characteristics. It extends the literature on proximity by examining its dynamic effects over time. Additionally, it supplements collaborative innovation theory by empirically validating the role of university participation in shaping collaborative structures.