What is this course about?
This Summer Academy aims to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the regional/urban policies and the economic and emerging development issues in the EU, as well as providing a clear overview of the policy instruments and practical formulas in place to strengthen regional/local competitiveness and growth. The complexity of the system in a globalised world will be explained in an accessible manner, thus also allowing those not familiar with the topic to enhance their knowledge and know-how.

The main aspects and nature of economic development, current and new phenomena such as agglomerations, benefits of scale and its neighbourhood’s effects, clusters as well as the most successful regional and urban strategies will be highlighted in the first part of the week. In the second part of the week, we will illustrate how cities and regions can influence their own economic destiny and positioning through dedicated policies, drivers and practices. Making smart use of the EU’s available supportive instruments may give rise and insights to often ‘uneven’ development. The programme will conclude with a seven-step approach and success criteria -illustrated by various recognised European best practices- to achieve excellence/quality in your public institution and governance structure in order to create the foundations for economic prosperity and sustainability in your cities and regions.

How will it help you?
A variety of training methods will be used to address the themes throughout the course, such as keynote presentations and practical presentations (LEs), business cases (Cs) and interactive discussions (Ws). Each teaching session will have a specific focus and this will be enhanced by concrete and powerful cases. Additionally, you will find specific material on the topics (in the form of a Reader) in your welcome kit. You will therefore be able to receive practical advice, exchange significant experiences and establish contacts and a network with peers for future partnerships and strategies.

Who will benefit most?
The programme is aimed at:

• public officials working primarily in the field of EU regional integration and economic development in local, regional or national administrations from the EU 28, candidate or potential candidate countries;
• officers working for development agencies or bodies promoting business for SMEs (such as Chambers of Commerce, regional parliaments, etc.) dealing with European economics;
• social scientists, economists and other professionals from non-governmental organisations or think tanks who wish to enhance their skills and specialise in the field of European integration and regional development policies;
• postgraduate students wishing to acquire greater and more competitive personal competences, beneficial for a future career in in academia or even practice-orientated professions.