High-quality economic development empowered by innovation spaces: A case study of STeP CMU 

Science and Technology Park Chiang Mai University (STeP CMU) serves as a strategic innovation hub that drives high-quality economic development through the Quadruple Helix Model, which integrates academia, industry, government, and local community. By leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure, including Buildings, Pilot Plants, and Laboratories, STeP accelerates technology commercialization, supports industrial modernization, and fosters startup incubation. Through its structured mechanisms, the Inside-Out Approach facilitates IP-driven innovation, the Outside-In Approach promotes industry-responsive technology transfer, and the Startup Incubation Approach enhances entrepreneurial acceleration, all of which contribute to strengthening regional competitiveness. A key case study, the Innovative Food Fabrication Pilot Plant, exemplifies the transformative impact of connecting research with market-driven solutions, enhancing agricultural value chains, and fostering sustainable economic growth. By integrating these mechanisms within structured innovation spaces, STeP CMU positions itself as a model for leveraging innovation to drive sustainable and high-impact development.