The S3 Community of Practice, an Initiative of the European Commission ’s DG Regio has just published a new policy paper on “S3 as a Tool for Developing Industrial Policy at Regional Level”, that reflects the debates and contributions held in the Industrial Transition Working Group, to whose members I feel specially thankful.

In a time of fast-changing global dynamics, with an open debate on European Competitiveness, Cohesion Policy and the role of Smart Specialisation Strategies—this paper reflects on how S3 can help regions define their own industrial transition pathways, rooted in local strengths but aligned with EU-wide goals for resilience, sustainability, and innovation.

We consider these goals can and should be achieved with a place based approach by reinforcing S3 core features:

1️⃣ - participatory governance

2️⃣ - few strategic choices

3️⃣ - a coordinated policy toolbox

4️⃣ - leveraging local challenges and capacities.

In the policy paper we highlight practical examples, policy insights, and strategic reflections to support regions in using S3 for a real industrial change.

📕 Read the full paper here: https://lnkd.in/ddA92Vy6