| dc.description.abstract | This study evaluates the implementation of Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) within the Interreg Alpine Space Programme, focusing on the three core principles localisation, prioritisation, and participation across three pilot projects: CaSCo (Carbon Smart Communities), SmartCommUnity, and ASTAHG (Active and Healthy Ageing Governance). Grounded in territorial cohesion theory and evolutionary economic geography, the research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining patent-based quantitative analysis with qualitative document analysis of project reports. Evidence suggested that localization was unevenly applied, with strong alignment in regions like Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (timber construction) and Vienna (health tech), but with weaker matches in less specialized areas (e.g., Slovenia), highlighting path dependency challenges. Prioritization, assessed via a relatedness-complexity matrix succeeded in projects which targeted high-relatedness/high-complexity sectors. Participation varied significantly among projects: SmartCommUnity’s Regional Stakeholder Groups (RSGs) exemplified quadruple helix engagement, while CaSCo and ASTAHG leaned toward technocratic governance, marginalizing civil society. The study underscores asymmetries in S3’s macro-regional application, advocating for more dynamic capability assessments tools and more meaningful participation practices. | |
