National and regional S3s: organisation and governance

In August 2022 the Government of Lithuania approved a new Lithuanian smart specialisation strategy for 2021-2027 focusing on three research, technology, experimental development, and innovation (RDI) priorities: new manufacturing processes, materials and technologies; health technologies and biotechnology; and ICT. The institutional framework for the development and implementation of S3 has three levels: management (strategic) level; coordination and implementation; and expert level. Lithuanian S3 strategy is national and applies to the entire country. At the strategic level, the Government approves the Strategy and performs other functions in the field of science, technology and innovation determined by the Technology and Innovation Law. The Strategic Council for R&D provides suggestions and recommendations to the Government around the R&D and innovation policy. It is formed by the Government, presided over by the Prime Minister and consists of ministries responsible for the RDI development, institutions implementing smart specialisation priorities, research and higher education institutions, business and representatives of other social partners. The main responsibility for S3 implementation in 2021-2027 has been transferred to the Ministry of Economy and Innovation. The Innovation Agency, under the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, is supporting the implementation of the S3 strategy, as well as coordination of entrepreneurial discovery process and promoting the internationalisation of sectors that meet the priorities of the strategy and the development of ecosystems. Other ministries and agencies implementing S3 support measures are involved in the process through the Coordination Group. The latter is a collegial advisory body for the implementation of RDI, which helps to ensure smooth inter-institutional cooperation in the S3 implementation. The coordination group is chaired and technically supported by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport. The figure of RDI priority facilitator has been introduced in the governance system in order to ensure a continuous and efficient entrepreneurial discovery process. Three RDI priority facilitators (one for each S3 priority area) will play a bridging role in regional and sectoral networks acting as intermediaries connecting and explaining common goals to various stakeholders in each of three selected priority areas. They will work closely with research and higher education institution, businesses, and other public and private sector organisations. Based on their work, facilitators will put their recommendations to the Ministry of Economy and Innovation regarding the needs of specific priority areas and improving the implementation of the S3 concept.

For information on regional S3s, please return to the homepage: https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/assets/s3-observatory/index_en.html