Place-based R&I ecosystems

Building an effective European research and innovation policy, and optimising the impact of related funding programmes depends on strong interconnected R&I ecosystems embedded in regions and cities. Innovation happens in places and there are specific local conditions that enable ecosystems to flourish. Therefore, enhancing local and regional ecosystems and working towards achieving a less fragmented European innovation ecosystem is crucial. Supporting collaboration between different stakeholders – public administrations, universities, research organisations, companies, clusters and civil society – at regional level to strengthen ecosystems, as well as collaboration between ecosystems, are both essential to reach that goal.

Network

ERRIN input to Horizon programmes 2014-2027 consultation

February 2023

ERRIN's work on ecosystems

Regional and local R&I ecosystems are at the heart of all ERRIN activities. The current multiannual financial framework (2021-2027) places increasing importance on the place-based dimension and includes several programmes and instruments that are developed around ecosystem thinking, requiring the engagement of multiple stakeholders and embracing quadruple helix collaboration. European Digital Innovation Hubs (Digital Europe Programme), European Innovation Ecosystems Action (Horizon Europe) and I3 Instrument (ERDF), are examples of such developments. ERRIN has actively contributed to all these instruments.

In the frame of Horizon Europe, ERRIN sees great potential of fostering a place-based dimension in the various parts of the programme and in particular under Pillar II in EU Missions and European Partnerships, Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area (ERA) as well as Pillar III European Innovation Ecosystems (EIE) and European Innovation Council (EIC). The network is also advocating strong place-based ecosystem approach in the future cohesion policy post-2027 (see our input from August 2023 here).

When it comes to wider initiatives at the EU level to strengthen the regional and local R&I ecosystems, the network actively follows and engages in undertakings such as the ones below, further described in separate subpages:

ERRIN event on building a regional innovation ecosystem

ERRIN’s policy messages


Ecosystem approach is a vital underlying principle for realising the full potential of research and innovation in Europe. The following points should be taken into account:

  • Strengthening attention towards exploring place-based strategic policymaking tools and methods such as the Partnership for Regional Innovation (PRI) based on smart specialisation (S3)
  • Implementing, more broadly in Horizon Europe, calls that engage the whole regional and local ecosystems
  • Involving cities and regions as demonstrators to tackle needs and challenges on the ground
  • Identifying and reinforcing ecosystem connectors with an ability to bring together different stakeholder groups (representing various interests and combining various funding programmes)

Key funding instruments supporting ecosystem thinking

Latest Updates

  • By Lucy Hammond

The JRC publishes "Innovation for place-based transformations. ACTIONbook, practices and tools"

The Joint Research Centre, in collaboration with the European Committee of the Regions, has published the "Innovation for place-based transformations. ACTIONbook, practices and tools". The ACTIONbook builds upon the PRI Playbook and PRI Pilot experience to help address complex challenges.

  • By Ewa Chomicz

Towards FP10 – ERRIN member survey to strengthen the ground for future work

This year is decisive when it comes to the development of the next European Framework Programme for R&I (FP10). To shape ERRIN's work on the topic, we encourage all members to fill in a survey about their regional work on FP10 and key issues to address. Receiving a broad view from the membership will be key for building the network's position.

  • By Rodolphe Doité

RIPEET boosts co-creation for energy transition in EU regions

On 17 and 18 January 2024, ERRIN held an event focusing on stakeholder engagement methodologies in energy transition as part of its project, RIPEET. The event gathered local and regional authorities, co-creation experts, European Commission representatives and researchers to discuss the critical role of stakeholder engagement in energy transition. 

  • By Ewa Chomicz

Call for ERRIN representative in Expert Group “Technology Infrastructures” – deadline 18/12

A call is currently open for applications for the selection of members of the Commission Expert Group “Technology Infrastructures" until 20 December 2023. ERRIN is looking for a representative from among the network membership to participate in the group - members are invited to express their interest by 18 December.

  • By Ewa Chomicz

Regional innovation highlighted in Council conclusions on R&I

On 8 December, the Council of the EU approved conclusions on strengthening the role and impact of research and innovation in policymaking – a priority file for the Spanish Presidency of the Council. A stronger role for local and regional innovation to strengthen competitive R&I is featured in the conclusions as one of the three mutually complementary dimensions.

  • By Ewa Chomicz

Launch of the Expert Group on the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe

On 5 December, the new expert group on the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe officially kicked off. As one of its tasks, the group will prepare a report with advice and recommendations for the future EU R&I Framework Programme. ERRIN looks forward to supporting the group with inputs that are key from regional and local perspectives.