To create sustainable economic growth, regional and local authorities have to constantly promote innovation in traditional and emerging industries. Our workshop will bring together local and regional policymakers and experts from different corners of Europe. Together with the representatives of the European Commission and the European Parliament, they will each offer their own experience and perspective on best practices, lessons learned and specific challenges they are facing.
- Local and regional | Energy | Sustainable | Digital and ICT | Jobs and Employment | Research and Innovation
- Code: 08PW241222
- Jacques Delors building, JDE 60
Speakers
Moderator
Karl Vanlouwe
Practical information
- When
-
Tue 08/10/2024, 09:30 - 11:00 CET
- Where
- Jacques Delors building, JDE 60
- Type of partnership
- Partnership
- Format
- CoR Political WorkShop
- Theme
-
Smart and sustainable growth for regions
- Languages
- English, Polish, French
Partner
Document
agenda
Reporting
Session summary
The seminar underscored the critical role of regional innovation in addressing Europe’s pressing challenges. From Flanders to Navarre and Białystok, the examples shared demonstrated how locally tailored solutions, combined with interregional cooperation and support from the European Commission, are essential for driving sustainable growth in Europe’s regions.
Key Messages:
- Innovation as a Driver of Growth: Innovation is essential for fostering sustainable regional economic growth. Tailored local solutions are key to success, with Flanders, Navarre, and Białystok serving as prime examples.
- Interregional Collaboration: Cross-border cooperation is crucial for regional development. Initiatives like the Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) programme help create new value chains, enhancing growth across Europe.
- Support for SMEs and Start-ups: The role of start-ups and SMEs is central to regional innovation ecosystems, and programmes such as Flanders' VLAIO and Białystok’s Science and Technology Park demonstrate effective ways to support them.
- Environmental Challenges as Innovation Opportunities: Initiatives like the Blue Deal in Flanders and Circular Innovation Valleys in Navarre illustrate how regions can transform environmental challenges, such as water scarcity and the circular economy, into opportunities for sustainable growth.
- EU’s Role in Regional Innovation: The European Commission is committed to fostering regional innovation, with support mechanisms like the Regional Innovation Valleys and I3 programme, which are vital for bridging gaps between regions.
