As part of the GreeStep action plan, innovation and technology transfer dynamics were explored across Liberec, Central and Western Lithuania, and Norte Portugal regions.
The methodology adopted for challenge identification included identifying key stakeholders, establishing contacts and scheduling meetings, exchanging supporting information, and conducting online interviews.
Findings reveal strong academic foundations but limited local impact, weak academia – industry collaboration, and uneven technology adoption – especially among smaller firms. Sustainability is emerging as a key driver of innovation, while access to funding and skills alignment remain pressing challenges.
Find below the main challenges related to innovation and technology transfer that were found in Liberec, Central and Western Lithuania, and Norte Portugal regions:
- Strong academic base, limited regional impact – All regions have solid research institutions, but their influence on local innovation remains limited;
- Weak academia-industry collaboration – Persistent disconnect hinders technology transfer and practical application of research;
- Uneven technology adoption – Larger or more innovative firms adapt faster; smaller ones lag behind;
- Skills mismatch – Education and training do not fully meet digital, automation and energy transition needs;
- Resource and funding constraints – Limited financial and human resources slow innovation, especially in smaller enterprises;
- Regional disparities – Innovation is concentrated in urban hubs, leaving rural or peripheral areas behind;
- Gradual digital and energy transition – Progress exists but remains uneven and requires stronger policy support;
- Need for simpler funding access – Bureaucracy and complex procedures limit R&D participation;
- Innovation driven by culture and vision – Success depends more on organizational mindset than on company size;
- Sustainability as a growing focus – Environmental and energy-efficiency goals increasingly drive innovation strategies.