Abstract
China's high-tech sector has become a significant driver of global innovation, thanks to strategic government support, technological advancements, and talent development. This study examines the environmental, organizational, human-capital, and technological predictors of creativity and innovation among Chinese high-tech enterprises. A descriptive–predictive research design was employed involving 400 managers and employees from 40 high-tech enterprises engaged in AI, 5G, new energy, and biomedicine. Data were gathered through a validated questionnaire that covered creativity (in terms of novelty and value) and innovation (in terms of product, service, and market). Descriptive statistics, Pearson's r, and multiple regression analyses were used to determine significant predictors. Results revealed that organizational and technological factors, particularly structural support, collaborative culture, and technology partnerships, are key enablers of creativity and innovation. Creativity levels were high across novelty and value dimensions, emphasizing practical and market-ready outcomes. Regression analyses showed that creativity dimensions were not strongly predicted by formal internal factors, whereas skills and knowledge, cutting-edge technologies, and competitive pressure significantly influenced product, service, and market innovations. Motivation, empowerment, and external partnerships were found to be negative predictors of creative value. Findings underscore the need for adaptive innovation systems that integrate people, processes, and technology, while remaining responsive to market dynamics. This study provides empirical evidence from China's high-tech sector, revealing how internal and external predictors interact to sustain creativity and innovation, thereby achieving a competitive advantage.
