The Biotechnology Cluster of Vienna, Austria

This chapter examines the development of the Vienna biotechnology cluster and the role of policy actions in its evolution. This contribution challenges the prevailing view that the development of high-technology industries is always a spontaneous phenomenon. It will be argued that in the case of regions such as Vienna which have weak potentials for high-technology industries, the development of biotechnology clusters can be promoted with proactive policy efforts to create a favourable environment for high-technology activities. Furthermore, it will be shown that, besides the leading role played by large firms, well co-ordinated policy approaches between the national and regional level are important for developing a biotechnology industry in a region.