In search for the effects of business and political ties on innovation ambidexterity

Abstract

There has been a lack of empirical research on how firms integrate different types of network benefits to facilitate innovation ambidexterity. This study examines how different types of network ties (business and political) influence innovation ambidexterity. Using a sample of 264 Chinese industrial firms, we find that business ties are significantly associated with innovation ambidexterity. The results also show that although the direct effect of political ties on innovation ambidexterity is insignificant, political ties interact significantly with business ties to foster innovation ambidexterity.