Innovación y competitividad en una selección de los estados de México

In this paper we outline the hypothesis that innovation is fundamental to develop and to maintain sustainable economic competitiveness. The underlying premise is that competitiveness of firms, sectors, states, and countries is closely linked to innovation actions as a source of competitive advantages. We found evidence suggesting the importance of innovation in the competitiveness of the Mexican states. This result is robust, despite the limitations of data availability. The conclusion is that differentiated sectoral policies are needed to promote the competitiveness of the states, recognizing the particular characteristics of each case.