Readiness of Physical Assets for Development in Maejo Agriculture and Food Innovation District

Abstract

Maejo University prioritizes the development of Maejo Municipality into the first agricultural and food innovation district in Thailand that can drive the economy, society, and elevate agricultural innovation activities. The development of the district requires an assessment of the readiness of the innovation ecosystem from 3 types of assets: physical, economic, and network assets. Among these, physical assets are considered crucial because they enhance the quality of life for residents and attract innovation entrepreneurs to invest in the area. The study focused on the concept of innovation district development theory. It aimed to assess the physical assets of the Maejo Agricultural and Food Innovation District using qualitative indicators based on the innovation ecosystem assessment approach and building understanding with stakeholders in order to plan and determine the direction for the development of Maejo Agricultural and Food Innovation District in the future.

 The Maejo Agricultural and Food Innovation District has demonstrated significant potential for becoming a successful agricultural and food innovation hub based on its physical assets as follows: 1) The location of the district is near the central business of Chiang Mai. The presence of thorough and sufficient electrical and water supply systems. 2) The district's well-planned combination of agricultural areas, residential communities, and commercial zones creates a conducive environment for businesses in the agriculture and food sectors. (The availability of different types of spaces caters to the varied needs of residents, entrepreneurs, and innovators, providing opportunities for collaboration and cross-sectoral engagement.) 3) Maejo University plays a critical role in the district's development, offering valuable physical assets such as learning areas and business incubation spaces. Additionally, the presence of expert innovators ready to support knowledge transfer further strengthens the innovation ecosystem. Government agencies within the district that have learning, innovation creation, and innovation testing areas add to the potential for technology and innovation development by entrepreneurs. 4) The presence of financial institutions, markets, and transport businesses within the district provides economic stimulus and support for investment in agriculture and food businesses. (Access to financial resources and markets is essential for entrepreneurs to grow their ventures and contribute to the district's economic vitality.)