This paper highlights a number of important matters in relation to transnational cooperation and S3. S3 begins within a region/country by exploiting place-based expertise and industrial skills within the regional innovation eco-system. The paper suggests that regional innovation eco-systems could be further strengthened through transnational learning and collaboration. Two key forms of transnational cooperation are identified.

The paper suggests that joint (macro-regional and trans-European) strategies could be based on multi-level approaches to experimentally extend and strengthen regional innovation eco-systems. In order to achieve robust and long-lasting outcomes, such initiatives could apply existing S3 tools. Here, an important issue is the transition from temporary programmes, projects and networks to new institutional frameworks for co-evolution and collaboration between smart specialised regions.

The next important step is to exploit the European diversity identified through regional RIS3 strategies while an important long-term challenge is the strengthening of emergent European and macro-regional systems of innovation.