Advancing Urban Smartness: The Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Horizon Initiatives

Authors

Zoi Lachana, University of the Aegean, Palama 2 & Gorgyras, 83200 Karlovasi, Samos, GreeceFollow
Christos Karelis, University of the Aegean, Palama 2 & Gorgyras, 83200 Karlovasi, Samos, GreeceFollow
Nikoleta Lavdaria, Hellenic Open University, Aristotelous St, 18, 26335 Patra, GreeceFollow
Irina Gorelova, Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Management, via del Castro Laurenziano 9, 00161, Rome, ItalyFollow
Francesco Bellini, Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Management, via del Castro Laurenziano 9, 00161, Rome, ItalyFollow
Yannis Charalabidis, University of the Aegean, Palama 2 & Gorgyras, 83200 Karlovasi, Samos, GreeceFollow

Abstract

This study investigates how I&E initiatives contribute to achieving urban smartness. To ensure a thorough analysis, we focused on 40 projects with complete data sets. This analysis revealed that pilots, stakeholder collaboration, engagement activities, training and mentoring, idea creation and startup support are crucial practices. Interestingly, only a small portion of projects focused on creating physical infrastructure. Existing infrastructure sufficiency, proposal’s call, or even the COVID-19 pandemic could be underlying causes behind this observation. By promoting these practices, cities can achieve sustainable and efficient urban development, such as increased citizen participation and the creation of green technologies.

Recommended Citation

Lachana, Zoi; Karelis, Christos; Lavdaria, Nikoleta; Gorelova, Irina; Bellini, Francesco; and Charalabidis, Yannis, "Advancing Urban Smartness: The Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Horizon Initiatives" (2024). ITAIS 2024 Proceedings. 12.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/itais2024/12