Smart Specialization and the entrepreneurial process of discovery Laura de Dominicis European Commission, JRC-IPTS S3 Platform ERRIN Working Group on S3 meeting Exploring the regional approach to S3 – the entrepreneurial discovery process Brussels, 15 th May 2013

In the design of RIS3 priorities should be identified based on two fundamental processes: 1. An 'entrepreneurial process of discovery' utilizing entrepreneurial knowledge existing in a region or country. This means that policy makers should involve all types of entrepreneurial actors (e.g. businesses, technology and competence centres, universities and public agencies, science and business parks, business angels and venture capitalists, civil society, etc.) in the design of RIS3 and assess their proposals for future development and investment. 2. An objective analysis of the region/country current potential depending on the economic context with a place-based focus complemented by an outward-looking dimension. This means the use of evidence to show what type of activities have the highest chances of success in a particular region or country, based on local assets and an examination of comparative advantages and complementarities with other European and global competitors.

Analysis of entrepreneurial dynamics and identification of future opportunities:  Different types of actors  Spirit of the entrepreneurial environment  Involvement of entrepreneurial actors in the regional economy  Firms, but also Universities, Technology Centers, Venture Capitalists, Regional Development Agencies..  Identify economic differentiation potential  Combine methods  consultation with firms, clusters; technological audits; foresight studies  Guarantee long-term engagement of stakeholders

The importance of communication of RIS3  To ensure RIS3 endorsement by all stakeholders  To engage new stakeholders  To inform the general public  Communication is needed at every stage of the process Good communication is crucial:

Challenges  One should observe entrepreneurs and involve them  EDP seems to be a collaborative endevour. Is there enough incentives and ownership to build around this? Entrepreneurship is not only about discovering potential ideas, but to build business around the ideas and knowledge.  Which actors to get involved?  How can truly innovative companies and areas being involved?

Thank you for your attention!