Title: Experiences and lessons learnt from an interregional growth project: the role of innovation and STPs

Authors: Paraskevi Zacharia, Foteini Stefanou, Chrysostomos Stylios, Peter Groumpos

Addresses: Patras Science Park, Stadiou 6, 26500, Platani, Patras, Greece. ' Patras Science Park, Stadiou 6, 26500, Platani, Patras, Greece. ' Laboratory of Knowledge and Intelligent Computing (KIC-LAB), Dept. of Informatics and Communications Technology, TEI of Epirus, 47100, Artas, Greece. ' Laboratory of Automation and Robotics, Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Patras, 26500, Patras, Greece

Abstract: This work presents the experience gained by Patras Science Park through interregional growth projects. This experience is very useful to regional and central authorities that determine growth policies and to any actor who works towards regional growth especially through innovation and technology, such as science and technology parks (STPs). HuReDePIS interregional project examined growth potential of the areas around Ionian Sea for six strategic sectors: SMEs, services, environment, CAP, culture and tourism and there were initiated growth and an immigration network. The current situation for the six sectors is highlighted and the problems and difficulties for regional and spatial development are identified and diagnosed. Special emphasis is given to the important role of innovation for growth of a region. The key role of STPs for growth is validated by their ability to serve as mediators between knowledge producer organisations and local economic factors.

Keywords: science and technology parks; STP; science parks; innovation; research and development; regional growth; R&D networks; regional development; interregional growth; SMEs; small and medium-sized enterprises; services; environment; CAP; culture; tourism; immigration networks.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIRD.2011.040532

International Journal of Innovation and Regional Development, 2011 Vol.3 No.3/4, pp.395 - 416

Published online: 29 Nov 2014 *

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