This study explores how and why cities form partnerships to drive innovation. While previous research often focused on national or provincial scales using traditional models, this project zooms in on individual cities, uncovering the underlying dynamics of innovation collaboration in a real-world context. The Yangtze River Delta region serves as the case study due to its economic significance and diverse urban profiles.

The goal is to move beyond linear, one-size-fits-all explanations by capturing the multidimensional, non‑linear factors that influence whether and how cities cooperate in innovation.