Technology-Based Ecosystems Integration into Industry: Transformation of Industrial Zones into Technology-Generating Areas with INNO 14 and PROTA Experiences 

Industrial zones have been one of the main dynamics of economic growth and job creation, especially since the second half of the 20th century. It is no longer possible to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage only through labor-intensive and cost-driven production models; instead, knowledge-based production, R&D investments, and technology-based collaborations come to the fore. In this context, the Open Innovation approach introduced by Henry Chesbrough (2003) offers a significant paradigm shift in the transformation process of industrial zones.1 This approach transforms traditional production hubs into innovation ecosystems with dynamic knowledge and technology-sharing networks, thereby driving a sustainable transformation that enhances industrial competitiveness.  

Organized Industrial Zones (OIZs) in Türkiye have become a cornerstone of the national economy by generating employment and diversifying production. In this article, the transformation needs of industrial zones will be discussed with the example of the Middle East Industry and Trade Centre (OSTIM), one of the leading industrial centers of Ankara, and the contributions of Ostim Teknopark to this transformation will be detailed. Specifically, the study will examine how open innovation-based models such as INNO 14 and PROTA have contributed to Ostim Teknopark by developing a skilled workforce, increasing R&D capacity, and integrating into global value chains.