At a time when the 2007 European Innovation Scoreboard shows the continued progress of innovative performance within the EU, the Assembly of European Regions (AER) is pleased to be able to recognise those European regional authorities that have stimulated, fostered and implemented innovation in their territory. The regions have significantly contributed to Europe’s increasing innovativeness, which is why AER, together with the Region Friuli Venezia Giulia (I), instigated in 2006 an award for the most innovative European regions.

AER is today launching the award for a third time, and is calling for entries from every region willing to showcase its innovative work. The deadline for submission of applications is 1st June 2008. The award will be officially presented during the AER General Assembly in Tampere (FIN) on 13-14 November 2008.

The AER Innovation Award carries a special significance for Riccardo Illy, AER President and President of Friuli Venezia Giulia. He underlines that “in order to gain a competitive advantage, Europe must innovate. Europe’s creative and innovative potential lies in its people, its citizens. Innovation is not created by machines, by territories rich in natural resources or by geographical advantage, although of course all of these factors can enhance the innovative process. Innovation is rooted in human potential. And who better than the regional level is able to develop proximity initiatives and foster innovation processes corresponding to the citizens needs?”

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