ERRIN is delighted to welcome the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as one of its new members for 2026.

Located in the north-eastern part of Greece, the region includes the regional units of Drama, Kavala, Xanthi, Rhodopi and Evros, as well as the islands of Thasos and Samothrace. It is actively promoting economic growth and modernisation by focusing on key strategic sectors such as energy, agriculture, mobility and tourism. Through innovation and targeted initiatives, the region aims to enhance productivity, competitiveness and quality of life for its residents

Together, regional stakeholders contribute to a strong and coordinated innovation ecosystem, linking governance, policy implementation and on-the-ground support for research, business and development.

The region has developed a structured and collaborative governance system for its Smart Specialisation Strategy, organised across three levels:
• Strategic level: the Regional Governor and Regional Council set priorities, monitor progress and provide guidance
• Coordination level: the Regional Development Fund of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace coordinates and monitors implementation while supporting the Regional Council for Research and Innovation
• Implementation level: management bodies and the Special Management Unit of the Regional Programme 'Eastern Macedonia–Thrace' oversee the delivery of activities under the 2021–2027 framework

A key feature of the regional innovation ecosystem is the network of eight Advisory Working Groups, bringing together businesses, research institutions, public authorities and civil society. These ecosystems play a central role in identifying regional needs, supporting the Entrepreneurial Discovery Process and shaping strategic priorities through collaboration and shared expertise.

The region’s Smart Specialisation priorities include:

• Materials, construction and industry
• Sustainable energy
• Agri-food chain
• Digital technologies
• Transportation and supply chain
• Environment and circular economy
• Life sciences, health and medicines
• Tourism, culture and creative industries

Through this governance model, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace aims to strengthen collaboration, activate its innovation ecosystem and deliver a forward-looking and coherent Smart Specialisation Strategy aligned with European priorities.

ERRIN looks forward to the valuable expertise and ambition Lower Austria will bring to the ERRIN community.

ERRIN members are at the heart of the network – it is their active engagement that drives the network. In total, ERRIN now gathers 126 regional organisations across 27 European countries. Find an overview of all ERRIN members here.