Smart specialization: a spontaneous four-step process in the mixed Arab–Jewish region of Haifa and Nazareth

Smart specialization is studied in the Arab–Jewish region of Haifa and Nazareth, with a focus on high-tech ventures created by Arab entrepreneurs. We find that not only did smart occur under these complex conditions, but also it was spontaneous. It began sharing entrepreneurial knowledge held Jewish entrepreneurs through social networks set up grassroots organizations. Policy initiatives support this process followed, helping to reshape region’s socioeconomic structure. Therefore, we argue followed four-phase process: pre-phase transfer between two communities, Foray’s three phases .