Research on the Correlation and Influencing Factors of Digital Technology Innovation in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area

Abstract

We investigated the digital technology innovation association’s spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors using social network analysis and a negative binomial gravity regression model. The model was based on the transfer of digital technology patent rights among cities in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area from 2010 to 2020. The following are the paper’s main findings: First, the digital technology innovation association among cities in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area is strengthening, and the accessibility and agglomeration of each city node are improving, as are small-world characteristics. Second, for a long time, the four cities of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Foshan have been at the epicenter of digital technology innovation. Third, in a more peripheral position, Zhongshan, Huizhou, and Zhaoqing have gradually increased the number of digital technology innovation linkages with other cities. Fourth, technological and institutional proximity positively impact digital technology innovation associations in the Greater Bay Area, whereas geographical distance has a negative impact. The study’s findings can be used to help promote digital technology innovation linkages and develop policies for innovation development in the Greater Bay Area.