Does the Geographical Proximity Matter in Knowledge and Information Flow? A study about wine cluster in the Southern region of Brazil
In: Revista de Economia e Sociologia Rural, Band 55, Heft 3, S. 569-588
ISSN: 0103-2003
Abstract: This study aims to analyze technological knowledge and information flows intra and extra-cluster, as well as the cognitive roles the firms play. It was decided to investigate such flows among firms and institutions that compose the wine cluster of Vale dos Vinhedos, mountain region of Rio Grande do Sul, responsible for approximately 90% of the national wine production. The social network method was used for this article. As main results, it is highlighted: the information flow has a distinct dynamic from the technological knowledge flow established among firms; they play different cognitive roles in the identified technological knowledge network; great part of the connections established is with companies from the cluster itself; and the search for knowledge in support institutions in the area is intense, highlighting the importance of geographical proximity in the established relations.