TECHNOLOGICAL PARKS AND SKILLED EMPLOYMENT IN THE INTERIOR OF PARANÁ: EVIDENCE FROM LONDRINA, FOZ DO IGUAÇU AND PATO BRANCO

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the relationship between technology parks and the generation of skilled employment in the municipalities of Londrina, Foz do Iguaçu, and Pato Branco, in the state of Paraná, Brazil, between 2018 and 2024. Grounded in the regional innovation systems and Triple Helix approaches, the study investigates how these institutional environments contribute to the expansion of knowledge-intensive activities and to the strengthening of regional labor market qualification. Methodologically, the research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining bibliographic review, documentary analysis, and secondary data from the Annual Social Information Report (RAIS) and the New General Register of Employed and Unemployed (New CAGED). Sectoral aggregation was based on CNAE 2.0 classifications and international taxonomies of technological intensity and knowledge-intensive services. The findings reveal a significant increase in skilled employment across the three municipalities, particularly in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Knowledge-Intensive Services. Londrina stood out for the largest absolute volume of skilled jobs, Foz do Iguaçu showed an important process of economic diversification, and Pato Branco presented the highest proportional technological intensity. The study concludes that technology parks function as strategic instruments for economic dynamization and the strengthening of regional innovation ecosystems, although their impacts depend on institutional maturity, local actor coordination, and the continuity of science, technology, and innovation policies.