Defining organized R&D: collective action for mission-oriented innovation

Abstract This study establishes a theoretical framework linking organized R&D (ORD) and mission-oriented innovation (MOI) through a collective action lens. MOI performance is evaluated using three key indicators: academic publications, Science and Technology Awards (STA), and granted patents. ORD dimensions are operationalized through research teams, human resources, academic milieu, and public funding. Leveraging survey data and archival records from 23 Chinese universities, we employ baseline regressions and structural equation modeling (SEM) to elucidate ORD’s influence pathways on MOI performance. Results indicate that research teams serve as significant mediators linking public funding, academic milieu, and human resources to MOI outcomes as well as the heterogeneous roles of ORD determinants in MOI performance. This study specifically highlights how the scale and allocation mechanisms of public funding more actively facilitate MOI performance outcomes through ORD. By integrating macro-micro connections between MOI and ORD, this research provides policymakers with targeted and actionable recommendations for enhancing MOI in higher education institutions.