LA COMPLESSA STRADA VERSO L’INNOVAZIONE NEI TERRITORI

Abstract

This paper provides a framework on regional research systems, through which, different regions are preparing to engage in program- ming period 2014 – 2020. It will also cover the regions’ investments in the co-financed programs between 2000 and 2013. Particular attention is dedicated to those projects that, in the specific objectives or specific actions have referred to high-tech districts, techno- logical platforms, clusters, innovation centers, science or technology parks and networks. It then carries out two verifications: firstly, of the degree of consistency between policies and implementation and ongoing design (S3) and secondly of their connection with the existing territorial specializations at regional level. This analysis shows that in some regions (in the case of Lombardy and Emilia Romagna) such research systems have been able to generate innovation thanks to the presence of very active economic - social en- vironments and local institutions able to properly analyze the context and promote tools, which have brought substantial positive outcomes (for example: Emilia Romagna and Puglia). In all other cases, the overall picture still does not deny the issue of the gap bet- ween the regions of Northern and Southern Italy. For these other regions it is considered necessary to further develop a new role for the regional and local institutions, such as “applicants’ innovation and technology", and improve attention to the question of the other users.

Keywords

• Smart Specialization (S3)
• Technological District
• Research Network
• Quadruple Helix