Recognising the crucial role of regions for industrial renewal, jobs and growth in Europe, the Commission launched the Smart Specialisation Platform on Industrial Modernisation at the Smart Regions Conference on 2 June 2016.

With a budget of €454 billion for 2014-2020, the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIFs) are the EU’s main investment policy tool. The Smart Specialisation Platform for industrial modernisation will help EU Member States and regions roll out ESIF's operational programmes for industrial renewal.

For this, an integrated approach is necessary to ensure the strong involvement of industry in the implementation of smart specialisation strategies. It is also necessary to intensify cooperation across the EU, with a particular focus on business network organisations like clusters. The new Smart Specialisation Platform facilitates the combination of regional and industrial policy tools for a faster and more efficient modernisation of EU industry.

The Smart Specialisation Platform for industrial modernisation will orchestrate efforts of EU regions to develop a pipeline of investment projects addressing common needs in smart specialisation areas.

Thematic networks will be co-developed by regions and particularly cluster organisations. They will focus on priorities related to industrial modernisation such as key enabling technologies, digitalisation, service innovation and resource efficiency/circular economy. This includes actions in areas like advanced manufacturing, digital transformation/industry 4.0, digital platforms, big data analytics, space data services, and advanced materials as well as service concepts for creative industries, textile and tourism.

More information

Full press release

The Smart Specialisation Platform

The European Structural and Investment Funds

The Smart Regions Conference