The role of sub-regional governments in RIS3 in Catalonia

Abstract

The research wants to contrasts the key elements for successful development of local RIS3 projects leaded by local governments in Catalonia (Spain). It is analyzed through three case studies based on recent proposals responding to a call for projects to be funded by ERDF. Four big issues appear as conclusions; all related to the need of better understanding and putting into practice the meaning of SPECIALIZATION, TERRITORIALIZATION, COLLABORATION and INNOVATION. Thus, an emerging common new integrative model is drawn to explain the brand new local economic development policies, with the aim to assist the multilevel public representatives in the difficult role of boosting innovation ecosystems.