We propose a novel mechanism through which established firms contribute to the startup ecosystem: the allocation of R&D tax credits to startups via the M&A channel. We show that when established firms become eligible for R&D tax credits, they increase their R&D and M&A activity. In particular,...

There already exists broad literature investigating small and innovative firms in many respects. However, there have been few attempts to assess this group of firms ́propensity to patent or its patenting activities. This paper intends to fill that gap. By applying a new approach to account for...