Main rules and actors of Italian system of innovation: how to become competitive in spin-off activity

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyze Italian system of innovation and evidence factors that can affect its global competitiveness. Design/methodology/approach – The article provides a conceptual analysis of main factors of competitiveness of an innovation system and an empirical discussion of Italian case. Findings – The article evidences main factors affect Italian systems of innovation that both researchers and practitioners can use in their activities. Originality/value – The article offers a new perspective on innovation systems.