Implementation of the SMART Concept within the Framework of the 2030 Agenda in the NUTS 3 Regions of the Slovak Republic

Purpose: The main objective of this study is to assess the level of implementation of a selected element of the SMART concept within the context of the 2030 Agenda goals across individual NUTS 3 regions of the Slovak Republic, using various analytical methods. The study specifically focuses on the development and evaluation of the indicator “employment in research, development and high-tech,” which represents a crucial component of SMART concept implementation from the labour market perspective. Methodology/Approach: To fulfil the study’s objective, in addition to analysing development trends using available statistical data, the shiftshare analysis method will be applied. This method enables the identification and comparison of regional employment growth or decline in the research, development and high-tech sector in relation to national development trends in the given sector. Another method employed is the analysis of the sector through the lens of the so called “export base theory,” which examines its export potential. Through this approach, it is possible to identify the strength of representation and the influence of a given sector in the labour market on the region’s economy. Findings: The research findings indicate that job creation in the research, development and high-tech sector does indeed reflect the implementation of the SMART concept, and in most regions, positive employment growth trends have been recorded. Despite support for employment in this sector in the Slovak Republic, only two regions—Bratislava and Košice—demonstrate a capacity to significantly contribute to the economic and social growth and competitiveness of the region by supporting this sector. Practical Implications: The study concludes by offering several options for discussing how to support the creation of space for expanding this sector or other soft sectors in the regions. This would enable regions to generate greater added value than they currently do, as the prevailing dominance of manufacturing offers limited potential for sustainable development. Originality/Value: The value of the study lies in the findings derived from the application of a wider range of research methods focused on examining the level of regional development (shift-share analysis and export base theory). The study identifies the results of the current level of implementation of the SMART concept in regions in terms of labour market transformation, and offers a perspective on further possibilities for supporting regions in this transformation. The focus is on smart and sustainable sectors that will drive the economies of regions and the country as a whole.