Innovations are considered by Russian and foreign companies as main way to increase competitiveness. How to estimate practice of innovation is becoming one of top research priorities in management nowadays. In conditions of recourses scarcity companies resort to imitation practices to improve their competitiveness by coping innovators. The paper presents result of empirical research of imitation and innovation practices among startups which are residents of Russian business incubators. Five clusters were found with distinct innovation and imitation practices. Two clusters with imitation practices appeared more effective compared to clusters with innovation practices. Research outcomes might be used by startups to improve their performance and competitiveness
Keywords: imitation practices, strategy, innovation, competitiveness, start-ups
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