Guide on Research and Innovation Strategies for Smart Specialisation (RIS3 Guide)

This guide is targeted at Structural Funds Managing Authorities, policy-makers and regional development professionals. It sets out the concept of smart specialisation and provides orientations on how to develop research and innovation strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3).

Abstract

This guide is targeted at Structural Funds Managing Authorities, policy-makers and regional development professionals.  It sets out the concept of smart specialisation and provides orientations on how to develop research and innovation strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3). Guidance is structured around six practical steps:
1) Analysing the innovation potential
2) Setting out the RIS3 process and governance
3) Developing a shared vision
4) Identifying the priorities
5) Defining an action plan with a coherent policy mix
6) Monitoring and evaluating
The guide also presents in a compact form some main delivery instruments that could be used to implement smart specialisation strategies, in particular cluster support, university-enterprise cooperation, SME innovation support, centres of competence and research infrastructures, public procurement of innovation etc. Some of these policy tools and challenges related to RIS3 are further explained in thematic guides. The guide is designed as a 'living document', which will be regularly completed and up-dated based on comments we receive and issues arising from its practical application within the EU Regional and Cohesion Policy.