The quadruple helix and the role of HEIs as innovation brokers in disadvantaged areas
探讨弱势地区校企合作的驱动与障碍，提出将高校定位为创新中介，通过建立信任、协调和知识转化促进包容性地方发展，对区域创新政策制定者有用。
This conceptual paper explores the drivers and barriers of university–business collaboration in disadvantaged areas, emphasising its potential to foster inclusive local development. Starting from a review of the academic and policy literature, it proposes a framework that situates higher education institutions as innovation brokers, crucial actors in building trust, facilitating coordination and translating knowledge across quadruple helix stakeholders. The study underscores the need for place-based strategies and multi-stakeholder coalitions to address complex challenges and support co-creation in regional innovation ecosystems.