Arctic Smartness Brand: A Strategic Tool for S3 Implementation
About this good practice
The main issue addressed was the need to enhance collaboration and visibility among RDI organizations in Lapland, often operating in isolation. Working mostly independently, organizations missed potential synergies, hindering effective collaboration and resource sharing, leading to knowledge fragmentation and difficulty in sharing expertise. This weakened the region's ability to attract cross-regional RDI partners and limited EU funding opportunities.
In response, the Arctic Smartness concept was introduced, promoting cross-organizational collaboration and a unified image. Key aspects include encouraging collaboration across traditional boundaries, fostering collective efforts, facilitating continuous learning and knowledge sharing among clusters, and enhancing innovation and resilience. The shared brand encapsulates the strategic vision, helping to concretize goals and communicate them, reinforcing a common direction and commitment. It supports S3 governance by providing a clear framework, guiding and motivating actors, promoting knowledge sharing, enhancing regional visibility, and increasing appeal on international forums. Arctic Smartness represents Lapland’s RDI excellence with shared communication channels, visual elements, and a cohesive narrative, contributing to the broader regional brand.
Resources needed
The concept was initiated in regional ERDF project Arctic Smartness Portfolio. It has been further developed in regional ERDF projects Arctic Smartness Excellence and FOCUS – Developing Sustainable Smart Specialisation in Lapland.
Evidence of success
Arctic Smartness has enabled organisations to re-identify themselves, enhanced regional collaboration and synergies. As a tool, it has helped to identified complementary expertise and strengthened the region’s European visibility and presence. As a result, European interest has grown, with regional actors seen as valuable partners for project proposals. Direct EU funding in Lapland has multiplied, and the brand has advanced sustainable development and long-term regional competitiveness.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practise is potentially interesting for other regions to learn from because its key aspects are universal and applicable in various contexts. For example the European Union offers various funding opportunities and support programs for regional development, innovation, and collaboration. Regions have the opportunity to utilise these resources to adopt new practices.