Unlocking the potential of IC in Italian cultural ecosystems

ABSTRACT Purpose - The paper aims at exploring the consistence of an ecosystem framework in the cultural sector and investigating the potential role IC in cultural ecosystems. Design/methodology/approach - The paper presents the results of an empirical research on a specific area of Northern Italy, the Po Delta region. The investigation was based on a sound theoretical analysis and carried out through group interviews on three main discussion topics. Findings - The research validated the consistence of ecosystem frameworks for the cultural sector and the key role played by IC in their design, creation and implementation. It also highlighted that the ecosystem perspective is part of a broader rethinking process of the cultural field. Research limitations/implications - The research was carried out in a specific geographical area. The results, however, invite for further research on the potential of IC in cultural ecosystems, also in a comparative and international perspective. Practical implications - The research highlights the emergence of new frameworks in the cultural sector and highlights the role of intellectual capital in new governance models in the cultural field. Social implications - The analysis underlines the need for new governance systems based on bottom-up approach, multi-level and multi-stakeholders frameworks, pointing also to potential important societal changes. Originality/value - The concept of IC ecosystems is still a quite unexplored field in the cultural sector. This paper could contribute to the debate on the most suitable governance systems