Purpose The main aim of this paper is to analyze the relationship between innovation and economic growth, following the Schumpeter approach, considering the entrepreneurship activity.
Design/methodology/approach Several hypotheses are tested considering three equations, for the case of ten developed countries. To estimate the equations, generalized least square (GLS)-cross-section weights and panel least squares methodologies for the period 2001-2009 have been used.
Findings Innovation plays a central role in the economic growth process and the entrepreneur is the vehicle to introduce the new technologies to improve the firms' activity and to obtain higher profits. It is also necessary to include in this process other variables: social climate and the role of institutions.
Practical implications Some measures can design from these results to improve innovation and entrepreneurship activity, which would have positive effects on economic growth.
Originality/value Schumpeterian approach is developed for this analysis, and empirical estimations are carried out to test hypotheses on economic growth and innovation, considering not only the traditional quantitative variables but also qualitative ones, having a wider view about the process. Drucker statement on innovation effects on entrepreneurship activity is also tested.
