Innovation dynamics within makerspaces and fabrication laboratories (fablabs): Analysis and key themes from existing literature

Makerspaces and fabrication laboratories (fablabs) have received growing scholarly attention for their potential to advance innovation. These spaces provide individuals access to technological tools while enabling collaboration and community-building around technology-driven activities. Yet, existing research on how innovation unfolds within these settings remains fragmented. This paper reviews and synthesises eighty-nine peer-reviewed studies to provide a clearer understanding of the innovation dynamics in makerspaces. The paper identifies recurring patterns related to collaboration, resources, motivations, diversity, and the social and regional contexts of maker cultures. By integrating these strands, the study highlights both the opportunities and limitations of makerspaces as sites of innovation. The findings contribute to debates on contemporary innovation spaces and offer insights of relevance to policymakers, practitioners, and scholars. • The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of 89 peer-reviewed studies on makerspaces and innovation dynamics, including fablabs and similar sites. • We identify nine major themes in the existing research, including collaboration, motivations, physical resources, diversity, socio-economic impact, regional policies, regional maker movement, city culture, and academic makerspaces. • The paper presents detailed examination of factors such as learning and sharing practices, spatial environment, and experimentations that contribute to innovation within makerspaces. • The paper contributes to the broader understanding of informal spaces' role in innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-building.