Innovation and economic transformation in low-income countries: a new body of evidence

This report synthesises research on innovation, putting it in context within an emerging body of evidence on economic transformation

Abstract

Policy-makers in low-income countries are increasingly aiming for a different and higher-quality type of growth. This growth should be more technology intensive, with a diversified production structure, be resilient to shocks, create jobs and be more inclusive. Crucial for this is enhancing economic transformation, defined as the movement of resources from low-productivity to high-productivity activities. However, empirical evidence on how much is already happening and how to enhance this process is often scarce or lacking altogether in low-income countries.

This report synthesises the latest and most relevant research from the DFID-ESRC Growth Research Programme (DEGRP) on innovation, putting it in context within an emerging body of evidence on economic transformation.

Citation

Ubabukoh, C., te Welde, D.W., Sen, K., Calabrese, L. and Wiggins, S. (2020) Innovation and economic transformation in low-income countries: a new body of evidence. DEGRP Synthesis Report.

Innovation and economic transformation in low-income countries: a new body of evidence

Updates to this page

Published 26 February 2020