Modern biotechnology is characterized by high dependence on basic science research, by its multidisciplinary approach and the complexity of its knowledge base, and by the high uncertainty associated with its findings. As a result, this industry has fostered a network of alliances, grouping together different organizations such as universities, research institutes, venture capital funds, government agencies and pharmaceutical laboratories. This work investigates the influence of the social structure of this network of alliances in the economic growth of Brazilian private modern biotechnology companies in the period from 2004 to 2008. The results suggest that while the biotechnology sector accumulates experience in making and managing alliances, gaining relational capability, it develops competencies that positively influence the filing of new patents and headcount growth.
Biotechnology enterprises; Alliances; Alliance network; Interorganizational learning; Economic growth
