Brainport Eindhoven: born from crisis - 25 years as a Triple Helix Governed Ecosystem

Various researchers have called for research into positive examples of successful triple helix governed ecosystems. Triple Helix collaborations are seen as the solution to tackle current ‘wicked problems’ society. Researchers encouraged enhance our understanding governing inter-organizational (ecosystems) in context university-industry-government (Triple Helix) relations. In this paper we therefore describe a case study Brainport Eindhoven ecosystem Netherlands which embodies organization and how regional governmental structure (Brainport Foundation Development) on one hand stabilizes at strategic level other gives flexibility tactical operational level. This leads transfer knowledge innovation change within network. Using mixed methods 1) analysis (strategic) documents about governance used mission evolved through time; 2) semi-structured interviews with former board members Development managers; 3) network participant observations; reveal rich experiences from 25 years Eindhoven. shows historical overview parties together managed several or worldwide crises. togetherness was crucial development ecosystem. Our findings illustrate fragile balance between stability its based processes common sensemaking by all stakeholders. contributes better entrepreneurial Finally, makes suggestions future discussing ambition transform Quadruple (adding ‘community’ fourth pillar) organized