Significance of employee innovation for knowledge economy based on the case of industrial companies located in West Pomerania

Purpose: The subject matter of the article results from the growing importance of innovation both in the development of enterprises and the entire economy. Design/methodology/approach: This paper is based on research conducted in 104 small and medium-sized industrial companies operating in the West Pomeranian province. For purposes of the research, the author applied the documentary research method and CATI survey. Findings: The findings clearly indicate that efforts taken to create environments conducive to employee innovation in industrial companies in the West Pomerania are not sufficient. The surveyed business environments did not adequately encourage employees to, in particular, expand knowledge, seek novel solutions and did not provide them with access to innovation generating tools. It is the company’s innovation culture and environment that fuels growth and fosters innovation which allows to compete successfully on national and international markets. The paper also brings to light the low level of innovation of Polish economy resulting from the fact that only ca. 17% of the small enterprises and ca. 37% of the medium-sized enterprises can be considered innovative. Research limitations/implications: As part of the article, research was carried out in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. It is planned to conduct research throughout Poland. Originality/value: The article highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to the innovation generation system in enterprises.