Regionální nástroje na podporu výzkumu, vývoje a inovací – porovnání situace v Česku s příklady dobré praxe ze zemí EU / Regional measures supporting research, development and innovation – comparison of the situation in Czechia with best practices in the EU countries

Abstract

The article describes the types of regional measures supporting research, development and innovation in Czechia in the context of the typology of regional support measures in the EU countries, based on the Regional Innovation Monitor Plus project. It also presents best practices from European regions, selected according to positive experience with application of the measures at the regional level and the results achieved. In terms of realisation of own research and innovation strategies, Czech regions are limited by strong dependency on support measures implemented from national and European level. Nevertheless, this dependency is typical also for regions in the remaining new member states. Another problem is the low level of cooperation between academic and business sector - in terms of both financial and knowledge flows. This does not allow to fully utilise the potential of territorial proximity within the regions, where innovative companies and excellent research teams can be often found side by side. Appropriate and well-considered application of foreign best practice measures and models (or their elements) of research & innovation support can help to mitigate problems of a concrete region. Furthermore, it has relevance for the development of strategic approaches to regional policy which consider possible cuts in European funding in a long-term horizon.