The mechanism for monitoring, supporting, informing and connecting businesses with research organisations to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in Thessaly acts in a supportive capacity to the Department of Business Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Investor Information of the Directorate of Developmental Programming of the Region of Thessaly, which is the competent regional body for the coordination and monitoring of the regional strand of the National Strategy for Smart Specialisation (ESEE), entrepreneurial discovery at a regional level, and the alignment of RIS3 Thessaly with the 2021-2027 National Smart Specialisation Strategy.
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RIS3 Thessaly aims to shape a strong and collaborative innovation ecosystem where businesses, research organisations and public authorities work together with a shared vision. Through networking and cooperation, digital transformation is accelerated, the development of new markets is strengthened, and sustainable economic growth is promoted, placing Thessaly at the heart of entrepreneurial discovery.
A central objective is the connection of research activity with the market and production. The utilisation of the knowledge and technological achievements of the universities and research centres of Thessaly contributes to the development of innovative products and services. The Mechanism supports technology transfer and accelerates the process of commercialisation, enhancing the competitiveness of businesses.
The initiative focuses on strengthening cooperation between businesses, research and public bodies, with an emphasis on access to financial tools and support mechanisms. Through actions of the Region of Thessaly and specialised programmes, the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in research and development projects is facilitated. At the same time, incentives are provided for the creation of synergies, reducing the financial and technological barriers that limit innovation.
The approach places emphasis on leveraging the comparative advantages of each Regional Unit and highlighting successful examples of innovation. Focusing on Thessaly’s priority sectors, such as agri-food, industry and tourism, strengthens regional specialisation and the creation of solutions with national and European reach. Through stories of successful partnerships, we highlight Thessaly's potential for sustainable and outward-looking development.
The participation of citizens, local communities and civil society organisations is a key prerequisite for the success of the smart specialisation strategy. The process encourages open dialogue and co-creation, fostering a culture of innovation that enhances the quality of life and social cohesion throughout the Region.
The planned actions not only respond to current needs, but also shape the future of Thessaly. The initiative focuses on ensuring the sustainability and long-term value of the actions. With priority given to sustainable development, the green transition and digital transformation, the aim is to strengthen Thessaly's human resources and infrastructure. The interventions lay strong foundations for continuous innovation and competitiveness in the future.
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