Unveiling the impact of European Structural Funds for innovation in Andalusia, Spain

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of European Union Structural Funds for innovation on key business indicators related to growth, profitability, and innovation at the regional level. We use the case of Andalusia during the period 2007-2020, a Spanish region benefiting from these funds, focusing on the ERDF-Innterconnecta program which supports business collaboration in R&D projects. While some indicators, showed improvement, others did not. By analyzing these mixed results, we aim to inform the planning, design, and implementation of future regional innovation policies.

Keywords

• policy evaluation
• business innovation policies
• structural funds
• business performance
• employment
• regional development