This report shows how an ‘ordinary’ regional economy can transform, through small steps, into one based on innovation and high-tech industries.

Key findings:

• The innovation potential of the UK's 'ordinary regions' can only be unlocked through well-developed and realistic plans that play to their individual strengths.
• Developing an ordinary region into an innovative one is a gradual process that requires deep regional knowledge and strong regional leadership.
• Regional coalitions and leaders need to be open to change, challenge conventions and engage in continual learning and development.
• Taking a tailored approach to regional innovation will enable more areas to transform themselves into centres of excellence and maximise the UK's capacity for innovation.

One of the challenges facing innovation in the UK is increasing the level of innovation outside the 'Golden Triangle' of Cambridge, Oxford and London.

The case studies presented in this report showcase seven European regions that have successfully made the transition from ordinary to innovative region; and four UK regions that are somewhere along that journey. 

It concludes by presenting a guide to the ‘regional innovation journey’ and an analysis of the types of leadership that may be required along the way.

The report’s conclusions hold important lessons for regional leaders and for central policymakers designing policies that need to be implemented at local level.

Author:
Paul Benneworth