Innovativeness of Enterprises in the Visegrad GroupCountries in 2009-2018. Findings in the Light of the Resultsof Empirical Research

The analysis of innovation at the regional level is crucial for the development of enterprises and their potential to grow into global players. Economic entities typically progress through various stages, from regional to global activity. This process is influenced by the innovation potential of regions, which can significantly affect the development of businesses and drive national growth. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive studies on innovation at the regional level in Poland, with a few authors addressing the topic in recent years.

Key contributions have been made by authors like L. Białoń, S. Ciok, and M. Dziembała, who emphasized the importance of innovation for regional development, especially regarding research, development, and innovation activities (RTDI). These studies suggest that funding should be directed at enhancing the innovation potential of regions to foster economic growth. The work on innovation in the Visegrad Group countries, published in 2019, extended this research by exploring the relationship between innovation and economic growth in Poland and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

The objective of this research was to measure the innovativeness of enterprises and its correlation with economic growth. A sample of non-financial enterprises was used, focusing on the period from 2009 to 2018. The study aimed to identify how changes in innovation potential affect enterprise development, defined as improvements in operational efficiency. Two key hypotheses were tested: the impact of R&D expenditure on enterprise revenue and the role of salaries in scientific and technical activities in stimulating revenues.

The study was further expanded to examine the relationship between innovation and economic growth in the Visegrad Group countries (Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary). Research hypotheses explored include the effect of changes in science and technology employment on GDP per capita and the impact of state budget funds on industrial production.

Innovation is seen as crucial for the success of both enterprises and economies. However, many companies prefer adopting a „first follower” or „fast follower” approach rather than creating original innovations. The research used literature analysis, statistical, and econometric methods. Statistical methods helped analyze data patterns, while econometrics involved creating models to forecast economic outcomes based on various variables.

The research sample was purposive, meaning that units were selected based on the researcher’s judgment. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in global economies, comprising the majority of businesses, employment, and GDP. Governments recognize the importance of SMEs in fostering innovation and economic development.

The publication is divided into three parts: a literature review on innovation and entrepreneurship, a statistical analysis, and an econometric analysis. Each part is introduced with a quote, and the chapters conclude with summaries. This work serves as a valuable resource for students studying economics, offering a detailed exploration of innovation and its impact on economic development.

The author expresses gratitude to the reviewers and others who contributed to the publication’s development, highlighting the importance of their support in shaping the final form of the study.