Vision & Principles

The vision of RIS3 Thessaly is to contribute to the transition of Thessaly into an innovative, sustainable and collaborative regional economy, aligned with the core sectoral priorities of the Regional and National Smart Specialisation Strategy Mechanism. It is based on the cross-sectoral quadruple helix approach — businesses, research institutions, the public sector and civil society — promoting inclusiveness and innovative convergence. A central aim is the validation and co-creation of a mutually accepted development vision for Thessaly in 2030, capable of uniting creative forces and guiding strategic choices that reinforce both the revitalisation of traditional sectors and the development of new activities. The governance system of RIS3 Thessaly incorporates the principles of transparent governance, collaborative co-creation and targeted feedback, making the quadruple helix (businesses, research institutions, public bodies, civil society) not merely a reference model, but a framework for active participation and decision-making.

Within the framework of RIS3 Thessaly, the principles of transparency, co-creation and targeted feedback are activated in a way that responds to the specificities of the regional economy. The publication of all relevant data, from studies to the minutes of the Thematic Working Groups, enables businesses, research centres, public and social bodies to have a complete picture of the progress and potential of the project. At the same time, entrepreneurial discovery workshops bring together productive sectors of Thessaly — such as the agri-food sector, manufacturing and emerging technologies — alongside academics and public administration officials, in order to shape new ideas and solutions that respond to the real needs of the region. The collection and utilisation of targeted feedback ensures that every priority of RIS3 Thessaly is reviewed, updated and specialised on the basis of real data rather than theoretical assumptions, thereby creating an environment where quadruple helix stakeholders participate meaningfully and influence strategic planning in a practical and productive way.