As a result, opportunities for people living in such regions are reduced. The concentration of various dimensions of disadvantage (e.g. lower incomes, lower skill levels, etc.) Those individuals, even those living close to innovation hubs, can be locked in low-productivity and low-income traps, unable to reap the benefits of innovation and growth produced in their vicinity. Innovation (i.e. the implementation of new or improved products or processes, or new marketing or organisational methods) is considered a key engine for growth: it enhances the productivity and competitiveness of national industries, and boosts business and job creation.