Abstract:

Smart specialization is a relatively new idea designed to promote the innovative development of regions in the European Union. It is both a concept of and a tool for building an innovation strategy in regions and countries. The purpose of the article is to analyze theory and concepts of smart specialization and examine the readiness of innovation centers to implement smart specializations in Polish regions. The article presents economic concepts and theories supporting smart specializations and discusses potential and actual readiness of innovation centers to implement smart specializations in Polish regions. The article is based on the analysis and critical review of literature and strategy papers, as well as logical design.