Responsible research and innovation in innovation value chains: focus on the catalytic role of non-governmental organizations

This study explores the role of NGOs in Innovation Value Chains (IVCs) and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI). It investigates how NGOs' presence influences RRI adoption in ecosystems and whether their strong RRI focus enhances its diffusion. Agent-Based Modelling and Simulation are employed for analysis. Findings reveal that NGOs promote RRI when adopting intermediate RRI values for consortium evaluation, whereas strict criteria hinder RRI diffusion. Highly RRI-oriented NGOs foster knowledge dissemination and network diversity, despite limited IVC involvement. These insights offer guidance for Research Funding Organizations to promote RRI and assist Research Performing Organizations in managing dynamic innovative networks.