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Research is Not Innovation

Jon O. Hellevang, R&D Manager in GCE Ocean Tecnhology. Photo by Roy Bjørge.
Jon O. Hellevang, R&D Manager in GCE Ocean Tecnhology. Photo by Roy Bjørge.

Research and innovation are often mentioned together, but they are two distinct concepts, writes our R&D Manager Jon O. Hellevang in his recent debating article in Khrono.

This difference is more than theoretical; it needs to have practical implications for how we think about and work with innovation according to Hellevang:

"Research aims to provide new knowledge: Innovation = invention X commercialization."

– I am a strong supporter of free and independent research, writes Hellevang.

Research is crucial for building a knowledge base that, in turn, forms the foundation for innovation. However, a new research project might not be the best way to accelerate innovation, he argues.

What does it take to Succeed with Innovation?

Companies succeeding with innovation are primarily driven by customers with a real problem to solve. Without customers, no commercialization and no innovation.

Speed and access to capital are often key to realizing innovation.

"Read the debating article here and voice your opinion (language: Norwegian).

Why Cluster?

Clusters like GCE Ocean Technology, foster innovation by presenting market needs, sharing expertise, connecting partners, securing funding and helping companies with scaling their businesses.

Research shows that companies taking active part in clusters are more successful in growing their business and succeeding in a global markets.

Learn how to become a member of GCE Ocean Technology.

Contact Information

Jon O. Hellevang

R&D Manager

Jon O. Hellevang

About

Jon Oddvar Hellevang is R&D Manager in GCE Ocean Technology and has more than 20 years of experience within research, development, and innovation at the interface between industry and research.

GCE Ocean Technology provides professional support and advice for free, to establish externally funded research, development and innovation projects for our partners and members.

So far, we have succeeded in helping cluster companies in securing about 3.3 billion NOK in external funding for project owned and run by cluster companies.

Furthermore, we run a world class scaling programme helping companies to grow their business.