Smart specialization allows regions to move from general strategies to decisions based on real economic data. Analysis in seven regions of Ukraine has shown that when strategic decisions are not backed up by data and value chains, strategic priorities lose their effectiveness. The study also confirmed the key role of ARR in shaping analytics for strategic development management.
Last week, the Ukrainian Crisis Media Center in Kyiv hosted a presentation of the results of a study on smart specializations and value chains as the basis for the competitiveness of Ukrainian regions.
The discussion was joined by:
-Anatoliy Tkachuk, Director of Science and Development at the Civil Society Institute, Chief Consultant of the project;
-Vasyl Fedyuk, expert on investment and territorial development, key researcher;
-Yelyzaveta Savchuk, Director of the Vinnytsia Regional Development Agency;
-Orest Sorokopud, Director of the Volyn Regional Development Agency;
-Mariana Kaganiak, Head of Economic Recovery at Helvetas Ukraine.
The Vinnytsia Regional Development Agency was one of the key participants in the study—the RDA team worked on analyzing Vinnytsia's smart specializations, the potential of regional sectors, and opportunities for developing value chains.
The presentation focused on how analytical research can directly influence the competitiveness of territories, support entrepreneurship, and influence decision-making at the regional level.
“Smart specialization is about making informed choices about development directions. When a region clearly understands its strengths, it creates a basis for decisions that work for the economy, business, and communities,” said Elyzaveta Savchuk.
For the ARR, this is not just a presentation of results. It is a tool for further decisions: shaping regional policies, working with businesses, investors, and international partners.
The presentation materials and analytical findings are available at: https://bit.ly/4qy2cOJ
The study was conducted by the Civil Society Institute in close cooperation with the ARR of seven regions in partnership with Helvetas as part of the project “Resilience: Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Labor Market in Ukraine.” The project is being implemented under an agreement between the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida - Styrelsen för Internationellt Utvecklingssamarbete) and Helvetas Ukraine with the support of Sweden.