The role of Technology and Innovation Parks in Europe European Economic and Social Committee – Exploratory Opinion

Large potential – strong expectations. The parks are complex structures, producing multifaceted challenges Recognition of parks as "innovation poles". Powerful tools for creating synergies between business and research institutions. Parks provide comprehensive framework to facilitate, stimulate innovation and regional development

The changing role and positioning of the technology parks New challenges and requirements in modernisation and competitiveness in Europe The significance of concentrated and integrated development structures – like the parks - has been increasing. These structures are acknowledged as promoters of an innovative and competitive economy, supporting both creation and consolidation. Diversification of the functions of parks - increasingly complex environment

Networking and collaboration dimension Societal and economic renewal emerges in creative eco-systems of innovation – like the parks It is desirable that parks cooperate both nationally and internationally. The university – research – corporate context is becoming more and more important, however cooperation between scientific circles and the business community has been a problem Parks could serve in their function as bridges between the academia and industry.

European governance, operation control initiatives and measures The EU needs a more focused and integrated approach towards sustaining and developing the science and technology parks of the of the 21st century. These actions have to be implemented with leadership and ambition on behalf of the EU. Criteria for evaluation, assessment and mapping of parks should be developed - by the development of evaluation methods and tools which quantify the benefits that result from public sector support.

New ways and challenges for the Technology Parks Demand for more sophisticated products and services The new industries: biotechnology, cutting edge information and communication technologies represent opportunities and challenges. Need for recognition of new competitiveness factors - sustainability, corporate social responsibility – in the new economic environment and social atmosphere. The entrepreneurship gets new emphasis Businesses and their associations, by deeper understanding of the strategic situation, may provide leadership.