From formulation to implementation: conceptualizing mission-oriented policies as multi-stage translation processes

The promise of mission-oriented innovation policies (MOIP) to address some of the grand societal challenges as a cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary approach to innovation policy by means of increased directionality has raised high hopes. However, the complexity associated with MOIP constitutes a challenge for both for policymakers and innovation scholars. Seeking to enhance our understanding of MOIP and the diverse policy choices and challenges involved, we propose a conceptualisation of missions as multiple, interconnected translation processes. We argue that adopting a process-oriented perspective is well-suited to account for the different levels of contestation and negotiation of missions at different stages (formulation, design, and implementation) and allows for a more pronounced perspective of the complexity and the role of potential bottlenecks of MOIP. The conceptual framework provides practical insights for policymakers, as well as analytical leverage for scholars studying missions and those trying to grasp the impacts of missions.