How and why new businesses engage in collaborative innovation projects: A case study on the Portuguese aeronautic sector

This dissertation investigates how and why new businesses engage in collaborative innovation projects, focusing on the dynamics of partner selection, relationship development, and competence building within inter-organizational networks. The research question addresses the gap in understanding how emerging firms integrate into complex, multi-stakeholderinnovation projects, particularly in sectors characterized by high technological uncertainty and institutional coordination. To understand this, the research examines three organizations: Tekever, a Portuguese technology company specializing in UAVs and aerospace systems; CEiiA, a research and development institution; and CODI, a manufacturing partner with expertise in additive prototyping. By using a qualitative, multi-case study design, the research used structured questionnaires to gather in-depth data on collaborative mechanisms and decision-making processes. The data analysis was conducted to identify patterns across three core constructs: business networks, partner selection, and competence development. The study contributes to the literature by extending partner selection and business network theories to the context of small and mid-sized firms operating in innovation consortia. This investigation gives insights for managers and policy makers on the relational and strategic factors that facilitate innovation-driven collaboration. It also highlights the importance of institutional ecosystems in supporting new business participation in R&D partnerships.