Study by G. Caruso (University of Florence). Supervision by M. Mariani and N. Faraoni
The study was edited by Giuseppe Caruso (University of Florence) for IRPET’s “Production Sectors and Businesses” research area, under the supervision of Marco Mariani and Natalia Faraoni. The work is part of the Institute’s institutional program of activities and was carried out in agreement with the “ERDF ROP Managing Authority” sector of the Tuscany Region. The report is one of IRPET’s 2025 evaluation contributions to the 2021-2027 Smart Specialization Strategy for Tuscany, as provided for in Resolution GR No. 1321 of November 28, 2022, Annex A.
This report monitors the progress of the Smart Specialization Strategy (S3) of the Tuscany Region in the first half of 2024, analyzing public investment trajectories in research, development, and innovation. Based on data from the ERDF ROP monitoring system, the document assesses the consistency of interventions with regional priorities. The S3 aims to promote sustainable and competitive growth by supporting transformative resilience and digital and ecological transitions. The four technological priorities include digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, innovative materials, and biotechnologies applied to health and the environment. The report examines the sectoral and territorial distribution of funding, highlighting the main innovation trajectories and the involvement of regional actors. It also analyzes Tuscany’s participation in the Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe programs, assessing the integration of the regional system into international innovation networks. The final part of the study explores the possible synergies and divergences between the Tuscan S3 and European strategies, proposing measures to improve governance, strengthen access to funds, and stimulate public-private cooperation.
