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Youth and R&I

The Youth and Research & Innovation (R&I) theme emphasises the role of young people as key drivers of transformative change. It promotes their active participation in research and innovation ecosystems, supporting skills development in areas such as STEM, digitalisation and green technologies, and fostering inclusive pathways into innovation-oriented careers. Under this theme you find initiatives that strengthen youth engagement and enhance cross-sector collaboration with a focus on research and innovation.

Building on the achievements of the predecessor project POLICY ANSWERS, the Hub also draws on experiences such as the Western Balkans R&I Youth Awards (2020–2024), which recognised impactful initiatives engaging young people (15–29) in R&I across the region. These awards—implemented by INOVA—mobilised organisations from across the Western Balkans, showcased measurable youth impact, and culminated in a regional selection and pitching process with financial recognition and follow-up outreach activities. Beyond awarding excellence, the initiative contributed to a broader youth campaign that amplified success stories and inspired future engagement in innovation-driven fields.

Browse below our resources, in particular news, events, calls and documents in relation to Smart Specialisation.

Geographical focus:

All Western Balkans

Thematic domains:

Youth

News:

Events:

Calls:

Documents:

    Institutions and Organisations:

    Initiatives: