Orchestrating an open innovation ecosystem enabled by an AI–based platform: A case study of collaboration between NTT DATA and start-ups

• AI-based platforms can enhance coordination in Open Innovation Ecosystems (OIEs). • NTT DATA acts as an ecosystem orchestrator using its AI-enabled platform. • The platform supports knowledge-sharing, partner matchmaking, and value co-creation. • AI must be embedded in strategic, knowledge-driven processes to foster innovation. • Trust, governance, and collaboration are key to sustainable AI-enabled innovation. Open innovation ecosystems (OIEs) are essential for facilitating collaboration and value co-creation among diverse stakeholders, such as corporations, start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and academic institutions. While there has been growing interest in OIEs and platforms, few studies have examined how artificial intelligence (AI)-based platforms can actively support the orchestration of complex innovation ecosystems, particularly in contexts of collaboration between large corporations and start-ups. Considering this situation, this study examines how a focal company, NTT DATA, can orchestrate an OIE via a digital platform based on AI to integrate and coordinate a diverse network of partners. It further examines the role of AI-driven platform intermediation in governing ecosystems and facilitating value co-creation. The evidence shows that AI can improve ecosystem orchestration and strategic coordination by focusing on four key mechanisms: (i) intelligent stakeholder matching, (ii) dynamic governance and coordination, (iii) facilitation of knowledge recombination, and (iv) scalability of collaborative innovation processes. Together, these mechanisms expand upon existing theories, demonstrating how AI can transform platforms into active orchestrators of the ecosystem. This study contributes to the literature on open innovation and ecosystem theory by clarifying the unique role of AI-based platforms. It also offers practical insights for managers seeking to design and govern AI-mediated innovation ecosystems.