View Viaduct Interregional Analysis Report here
A recent interregional study, conducted under the VIADUCT project (Valorising public research to drive technology transfer and commercialisation through creation of spin-off), sheds light on collaborative efforts among European regions, revealing invaluable insights into their distinctive strengths, areas for improvement, and the pivotal role of cross-border cooperation in nurturing entrepreneurial culture and fostering innovation across the continent.
The study particularly highlights the Western Region of Ireland as a beacon of innovative strategies in nurturing entrepreneurial endeavours, particularly in the life sciences and MedTech sectors. Through alignment with the Smart Specialisation Strategy, the region presents a compelling model for integrating measures with regional strategic objectives, setting a notable precedent for fostering innovation and driving economic growth.
VIADUCT aims at promoting the creation and development of technology-based spin-offs based on smart specialisation strategies by tackling main barriers related to spin-offs creation and consolidation through the improvement of Policy Instruments.
The project, with a budget of €1,796,888 and running from March 2023 to May 2027, has brought together seven partners from seven regions in seven countries across Europe, including the Western Development Commission in Ireland. The interregional exchange and learning process activities include thematic workshops, study visits, regional reports, and stakeholder meetings, facilitating the improvement of policy instruments to ensure a successful process of knowledge transfer through spin-offs, facilitating their creation and survival.
Incorporating diverse perspectives from various regions, the report underscores the critical importance of mutual learning and cooperation in advancing entrepreneurial endeavours and promoting innovation on both local and European scales.
Ian Brannigan, Head of Regional Development at the Western Development Commission, emphasised the significance of the report’s insights, stating:
This report is a timely and welcome insight into how we support and encourage public research to become viable businesses. Whilst the report shows that the West of Ireland region is among the leaders in both evaluating and supporting entrepreneurial culture, it also outlines challenges that remain for public researchers such as the ease of creating multidisciplinary teams to launch business projects. As such much more needs to be understood and implemented to accelerate public research businesses in our region.
The commitment demonstrated by representatives from all regions in addressing challenges related to spin-off creation is commendable. By leveraging shared experiences and best practices, regions can expedite progress and cultivate a dynamic and supportive environment conducive to the establishment and growth of spin-offs.
Key findings and insights will be presented at the online VIADUCT Interregional Analysis Report Presentation Event on April 17th.
Register here to attend and gain valuable insights into research-based spin-off creation.
Key Findings and Insights:
- Western Region of Ireland: Showcases a targeted approach to nurturing life sciences and MedTech initiatives, aligning closely with the Smart Specialisation Strategy. This strategy presents a compelling model for integrating measures with regional strategic objectives.
- Lithuania: Notably stands out as the sole region where researchers perceive a positive entrepreneurial culture. Its flexible legislative framework for spin-offs, aligned with the S3 strategy, serves as a potential blueprint for fostering entrepreneurship at a high strategic level.
- Aragón, Spain: Advocates for the introduction of incentives for researchers and calls for more adaptable legislation to harmonise entrepreneurial pursuits with research careers. There’s a suggestion to explore legal frameworks for spin-offs from other regions to enhance the existing landscape.
- Tampere, Finland: Emphasises the imperative of strengthening ties between researchers and private enterprises. Investigating the mechanisms underpinning these collaborations could offer valuable insights applicable to other regions.
- Veneto Region, Italy: Demonstrates a positive outlook on assembling multidisciplinary teams for spin-offs, setting a precedent for effective strategies in this realm.
- West Region of Romania: Encounters hurdles with formal valorisation procedures, highlighting the opportunity to explore models from other regions to devise tailored solutions.
- Greater East Region of France: Distinguishes itself with robust support for venture building and a unique approach to organising technology transfer and valorisation activities, offering an inspiring template for adaptation by other regions.
View Viaduct Interregional Analysis Report here
Interregional Analysis Report Presentation Event:
Join the VIADUCT Interregional Analysis Report Presentation, online on April 17th, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm Irish time. Explore the insights from the VIADUCT Interregional Analysis Report and participate in discussions to enhance collaboration among stakeholders.
