Díez Vial, IsabelMontoro Sánchez, María Ángeles2023-06-172023-06-1720171741-527610.1504/ijtm.2017.10003244https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/18882This paper analyses the effect of the evolution of local knowledge networks on the innovative capacity of firms co-located. Using a network dynamic approach, this paper argues that the length of time that firms spend in a science park affects their local knowledge network. By the identification of three stages of local development-incubation, growth and maturity-, this study provides new insights about the role of science parks in both increasing their innovative capacity and promoting the exchange of knowledge among co-located firms. In this sense, science parks have been increasingly considered as a nurturing environment for business start-ups and lead to the development of growth-oriented firms, not being a consensus about how the length of time the firm spends in the park may affect these benefits.engjournal articlehttp://dx.doi.org/10.1504/ijtm.2017.10003244open accessNetwork dynamicsKnowledge flowsStrength of relationshipsInnovationTimeScience parkSocial network analysisSNATrustCentrality in the network.Desarrollo económicoEmpresas5307.03 Modelos y Teorías del desarrollo Económico5307.04 Estudios del desarrollo Económico5311 Organización y Dirección de Empresas