Abstract: The paper attempts to understand the logic guiding the transmission process and the impact of technological spillovers as well as their potential to foster innovation. In particular it seeks to review the literature on technological spillovers of individual large Research Infrastructures (RIs), a key factor in the economic return of this type of facilities. After World War II large RIs turned into a crucial element for the development of the economy precisely due to their technological spillovers. In this light, it is of interest to establish to what extent large RIs are a source of technological spillovers. Nevertheless, despite its importance, we do not find evidence for RIs consistent with the conceptual framework based on the work by Griliches (1979) and most often used to analyse technological spillovers. We argue that all the potential large RIs can offer has not been reached as yet and further research is needed. Shedding light on the area will potentially increase the benefits and the return to these large investments.

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