Innovation in Public Sector through European Funds: What is the Role of Local Authorities in Regional Development and Implementation of Smart City Solutions in Romania?

Abstract

21st century is becoming more and more a period of new social, natural, economic and political paradigms, a century of contrasts, disruptive technologies and speed. Thus, there is a growing need for continuous innovation, in all fields, with the support of advanced technologies and concepts. But who will take the main role in implementing long-term solutions, development strategies that are holistic, integrated and relevant for smart and sustainable regions? Lately, more and more local public authorities in Romania are interested in developing smart solutions that improve the quality of life and enhance the possibility of (re)using available resources, thus contributing to regional development through accessing available European funding. At the same time, we observe there are enough public funds available to implement such smart solutions and public administrations are forced to use their experience and innovative capacity in order to attract funds to develop smart projects.

Keywords

• regional development
• smart city
• european funding
• public sector
• innovation