This paper analyses the role of universities in supporting local agroindustry using the case of the Piceno agroindustrial district in Italy. Emerging countries' comparative advantages, made stronger by increased international trade and the rediscovery of local traditions and typicality, do not signify that there will be a less knowledge-intensive agroindustry in the future. On the contrary, only those SMEs with consolidated competitive advantages, based on knowledge embodied in highly-qualified employees, will be able to exploit the new comparative advantages made available by delocalization and take full advantage of the economic potential of typicality. Peripheral universities play a first-mover role in training and creating dynamic linkages with local governments and local agroindustry.
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