Policy implications and recommendations

George Papamichail

Chapter 5 in Unlocking Smart Specialisation, 2026, pp 77-103 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: As the opening chapter of Part III—Policy Implications and Strategic Pathways—this chapter translates lessons from implementation into a policy framework for closing the Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) implementation gap. It argues that robust impact depends less on multiplying instruments and more on strengthening institutional and governance capabilities to co-ordinate, align and sustain them. Drawing on empirical studies, it outlines recommendations across six domains: governance and institutions (multi-level co-ordination, clear mandates, regional autonomy); capacity building and human resources (strategic, analytical, relational and adaptive skills across administrations, intermediaries and firms); stakeholder engagement (moving beyond consultation toward incentive-aligned quadruple helix partnerships); monitoring, evaluation and learning (from compliance metrics to learning-oriented systems); integration with broader frameworks (Green Deal, digitalisation, inclusion via mission-oriented platforms) and implementation roadmaps (sequenced, context-sensitive pathways for leaders, emerging innovators and capacity builders). The chapter concludes that bridging strategy and practice requires adaptive governance, empowered intermediaries and trust-based relationships.

Keywords: Adaptive multi-level governance; Capacity building; Institutions; Mission-oriented policy; Smart specialisation gap (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035346370
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