From EURADA, we are very proud to see that several of our member regions have been selected to participate in such an important initiative that will boost their Smart Specialisation strategies. In concrete, these are our 16 selected member regions:

This Partnership for Regional Innovation Playbook, developed by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission is poised to act as the main reference document englobing the whole PRI initiative. In this sense, during the event, it was mentioned that this first edition highlighted the proven tools inspired by leading innovation policies across Europe. Moreover, it was also made clear that the term “Playbook” emphasizes the need to explore, experiment and learn to approach unique opportunities and challenges in each territory and region that will serve as an example for future generations.

During the event, Elisa Ferreira, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, highlighted the relevance of including all regions in a common strategy to avoid a fracture in the European landscape.

Thus, Mrs Ferreira explained the huge impact that the Partnerships on Regional Innovation can have towards achieving the common goal of building a cohesive and inclusive Europe. On the other hand, Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth remarked the vital importance of supporting all involved actors (SMEs, Public Administrations, Startups…) to collaborate between them both regionally but also in a cross-border context.

In addition, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, President of the CoR, explained that investing in innovation should not be a luxury but a must for all European regions to drive a sustainable and feasible economic development. For this reason, Mr. Tzitzikostas made a special emphasis on the high diversity and the high number of regions presented for the PRI and how transformative innovation can be boosted through the Pilot Action on Partnerships for Regional Innovation.

In the light of the above, and according to the opinion of several experts on the field, it is said that the Pilot Action on Partnerships for Regional Innovation will be the basis of the future Smart Specialisation strategies for the next programming period.