Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3)
The Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) is the central pillar of innovation and industrial policy in Wallonia for the period 2021-2027. Launched in 2019, it unites all innovation players around the shared vision of boosting the region's economic and technological development.
The Smart Strategy (S3) was renewed in 2021, adopting an inclusive, interactive and iterative approach, with strong stakeholder involvement. This strategy, which is part of the 2021-2027 European Framework, is the strategic framework for industrial and Research & Innovation policy in Wallonia during this period.
What is the aim of S3?
The aim of the S3 is to concentrate resources on key priorities in order to maximise their impact on the Walloon economy, create jobs and develop innovative solutions that benefit society as a whole.
What areas does the S3 cover?
To meet Wallonia's societal challenges, the government has defined five Strategic Innovation Areas:
The areas targeted by the Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) in Wallonia are:
- Circular materials: development of sustainable and recyclable materials.
- Innovations for enhanced health: improving healthcare technologies and services.
- Innovations for agile and safe design and production methods: process optimisation.
- Energy systems and sustainable housing: promotion of renewable energies and ecological habitats.
- Agri-food chains of the future and innovative environmental management: modernisation of agriculture and sustainable management of natural resources
These areas are supported by digital technologies and initiatives for a low-carbon economy, as well as incorporating non-technological innovations such as new business models and social innovation.
Find out more about Strategic Innovation Areas (SIAs)
Which initiatives have been selected?
In autumn 2022, 19 Strategic Innovation Initiatives (SIIs) were selected following a Call for Expressions of Interest (CEI). These initiatives cover a range of fields, from cybersecurity (CyberWal) and network medicine (MedResyst) to low-carbon transport (Contribute) and alternative proteins (PROTEWIN). Each SII brings together innovation players and projects around societal issues, with the aim of turning these innovations into reality to promote green, economic and digital transitions.
Find out more about Strategic Innovation Initiatives (SIIs)
Find out more
The S3 has its own portal showcasing the region's strategic innovation initiatives and areas. It contains information on current projects, calls for projects, the players involved in innovation and news about the strategy. The site also details the S3 objectives and key priorities for economic and technological development. Explore the initiatives to discover how Wallonia is positioning itself to face today's societal challenges.