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Sharing Knowledge

between regions

Mikel Landabaso Head of Unit,

Thematic development, innovation

Regional Policy Directorate GeneralEuropean Commission

http://ec.europa.eu./comm/regional_policy

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TOPICS

• Regions for Economic Change (RfEC)?• Objective of the ‘Fast Track Network’ (FTN)? • Other tools for sharing knowledge among Regions

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What is ‘Regions for Economic Change’ (RfEC)?

• An initiative, funding, but not additional• Implementation through two major networking programmes:

interregional (INTERREG IVC) and urban development (URBACT II) cooperationCore objectives:

• Addressing common issues together and • Creating a stronger link between exchange of good practices

and mainstream funding programmes = capitalisationCommunication (2006) 675 of 8/11/2006

Four key elements:• Thematic approach (30 themes)• Communication• Two-way bridge between networking and mainstream

programmes• ‘Fast track’ option (Commission support)

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What is ‘Regions for Economic Change’ (RfEC)?

Example: Communication (and dissemination…)

Yearly conferences

RegioStars AwardsWebsite

Publications

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What is a ‘Fast Track Network’ (FTN)?

• As any other network, based on exchange:experience and ‘good practice’

• Capitalisation of knowledge already available:tools, methods, approaches, management skills, thematic knowledge…

• Focus on action:translation of ‘good practices’ into mainstream policies and programmes (esp. EU-funded ones)

• Active involvement of the Managing Authorities (MAs) of the relevant Operational Programme(s)

• Concrete deliverables (Action Plans), practical implementation with an eye to sustainability beyond the life of the network

• Support of the Commission services: DG Regional Policy and other DGs.

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Fast tracks create networks of regions...

...and build contacts with Managing Authorities and regional stakeholders,

creating local ownership of good practice & political commitment

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Managing Authorities are associated in the networks.

Managing Authorities are often not aware of resources invested in networks: should be seen more strategically and exploited.

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Action Plans are developped during the project, for each region,and identify how the learning, good practice can be implemented

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And regions are supported in their efforts to implement Action Plans within the relevant OPs.

With Commission support in different stages.

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The Commission’s role 1. Guidance

Involvement of all relevant Commission departments Contribution to peer review in networks Make links to managing authorities, other projects, other

programmes, etc.

2. Support Administrative back-up & network animation

3. Visibility Dissemination RFEC Conferences Website Regiostars…

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Regio Stars Awards 20103 ICT Categories:

1. ICT applications for e-inclusion

2. ICT applications by or for SMEs

3. Broadband coverage in less developed regions or rural areas

http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/innovation/regiostars_en.htm

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Thank You !!

Regional Policy Directorate GeneralEuropean Commission

http://ec.europa.eu./comm/regional_policy