Regional Innovation Valleys Enhancing Place-Based Innovation

The Regional Innovation Valleys (RIVs), a cornerstone of the New European Innovation Agenda, were launched in 2023 to catalyze regional innovation across Europe. In June 2024, over 150 regions, including Kanta-Häme, were designated as RIVs to bolster their research and innovation (R&I) capacities. These valleys aim to foster a vibrant European innovation ecosystem focused on critical areas like climate adaptation, circularity, healthcare, food security, digital transformation, and energy independence.Kanta-Häme, renowned for its bio and circular economy expertise, boasts a robust industrial base and cutting-edge research. Key circular economy sectors, including bioeconomy, food, construction, and waste management, are thriving. The region's three eco-industrial parks (Envitech, RiiCycle, and Industrial Park MORE) provide exceptional platforms for industry networking and the development of innovative business models.This paper examines three regional development projects that prioritize stakeholder engagement and collaboration within innovation ecosystems.The "Häme Goes into Ecosystems" project assessed the efficacy of participatory approaches in fostering understanding and motivation among stakeholders. A key outcome was the "Häme Ecosystem Guidebook for SMEs," designed to encourage SME participation in research, development and innovation activities.The "Häme Regional Innovation Valley" project emphasizes international collaboration and the visibility of regional research, development and innovation services in order to enhance placed-based innovation activities.The CIRC-2-ZERO project, involving Baltic Sea region partners, accelerates carbon emission reduction among SMEs in the electronics and wood industries. It promotes advanced manufacturing practices by facilitating the adoption of digital tools and solutions for circular economy transitions. HAMK leads the Resilience Transformation Hub, serving as the central point of contact for regional SMEs and stakeholders.These case studies underscore the effectiveness of participatory approaches in driving stakeholder engagement and collaboration, fostering place-based innovation. By convening diverse stakeholders and facilitating open dialogue, these approaches cultivate a shared vision for the innovation ecosystem and contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient economies and regions.