Abstract
The Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3), introduced by the Cohesion Policy 2014-2020, aim to mobilize investments in research and innovation at the regional level by identifying areas of Specialisation based on territorial strengths. The Quadruple Helix and Responsible Research and Innovation approaches, which involve the participation of research institutions, businesses, government, and civil society, are considered essential for the inclusive implementation of S3, as they leverage multi-level governance. Emilia-Romagna and Catalonia each respond to these guiding principles, starting from their respective territories and contexts. In more recent years, a collaboration agreement has been signed between the two regions on various topics. This work seeks to analyze and trace the Quadruple Helix and Responsible Research and Innovation approaches in the implementation of S3 in both regions, with the aim of comparing different territories that adhere to the same European guidelines. The findings reveal that, while sharing principles and the aforementioned approaches, the two regions have acted differently, reflecting the specificities of their respective contexts. Catalonia has placed an emphasis, from the outset, on the active engagement of civil society through tools such as CatLabs and Shared Agendas, adopting a “systemic” approach. Emilia-Romagna, on the other hand, has taken a more “incremental” approach, gradually expanding stakeholder participation through Open Laboratories and Transformative Agendas. The differences that emerge illustrate how common innovative principles can be implemented in a complementary manner. Both regional models can contribute their best practices to mutual improvement, as demonstrated by their cooperation on shared issues.