This article reviews The Handbook of Innovation Ecosystems , detailing its "four-domain convergence framework" . It argues that successful ecosystems are not accidental but require the deliberate, long-term integration of Placemaking, Economics, Business, and Governance . It provides a practical guide for policymakers and practitioners to move beyond rhetoric and build durable, inclusive innovation capacity .

New research examining 80+ international innovation districts reveals what drives success. From MIT's Kendall Square to Singapore's One North, thriving ecosystems integrate placemaking, economics, business development and governance. Success comes from institutional capabilities and relationships, not impressive buildings. Australian policymakers can learn from global best practices whilst avoiding common pitfalls like property-led development models

Sydney has impressive innovation assets, top universities, vibrant tech, and leading health precincts, but underperforms as a unified ecosystem. With 33 councils and competing districts, the city lacks the integration seen in Amsterdam, Boston, Singapore. New research argues Sydney must stop mimicking Silicon Valley and instead build metropolitan-scale coordination, trusted intermediaries, and collaborative governance to turn fragmented brilliance into global competitive adv