An innovation ecosystem describes the complex set of relationships among very diverse actors and entities, which work for technology development and innovation in a territory. Amongst others, this includes the material resources and human capital of universities, colleges of engineering, business schools, business firms, venture capitalists, industry-university research institutes, state or regional economic development agencies and chambers of commerce, funding agencies and policymakers.

Connectedness, Competence and Talent, and Capital are identified as issues of major importance by the European Commission’s Report on the 2020 stakeholder consultation “A Robust Innovation Ecosystem for the Future of Europe”. This webinar looked at the elements which make for an effective innovation ecosystem. In particular, we examined how regional ecosystems involve different levels of education, specifically whether technical and vocational education and training stakeholders are involved or how they can be involved further.
The webinar is conceived as a mutual learning event. Regional good practices on how to boost innovation ecosystems through skills were highlighted and shared among a diversified audience of experts and practitioners that includes regional and local policymakers and civil servants, and VET stakeholders (VET providers and experts, academics and businesses’ representatives).
Lastly, the event served as an opportunity for exchange among cross-sectoral and cross-national experts in view of establishing relevant partnerships that can be applied in future EU projects. Facilitating the involvement of Technical Vocational Education & Training centres (TVET) in innovation ecosystems is imperative to improve the availability of competencies and talent. The webinar looked at:

• The elements that enable an effective innovation ecosystem;
• How regional ecosystems involve different levels of education, and in particular whether technical and vocational education and training stakeholders are involved;
• How TVET stakeholders can be involved further in innovation ecosystems.

Lessons learned:

• Local governments should prioritise bi-directional communication with regional stakeholders to ensure that innovation ecosystems receive a continuous supply of new ideas to improve citizens' wellbeing;
• Innovation is all about the continuous upskilling of citizens so that they can adapt to the ever-changing demand and requirements of the market.
• In order to design and implement appropriate innovation policies in regions, local and regional governments need to assess and pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses;
• Mutual learning is key to a more prosperous European society.