Alain Lunghi

Three questions to Alain Lunghi, Director Regional Policy

What is ‘smart territory’ exactly?

It refers to a multidimensional analysis of the advantages that a particular territory has to offer. The aim is to better promote innovative economic and social activities that boost the competitiveness of the regional economy and create attractive jobs. These activities will, in turn, help to safeguard economic prosperity, the well-being of the population and the sound management of natural resources.

Is the canton of Fribourg wellplaced to rise to the challenge?

Leveraging public-private partnerships is vital for creating a ‘smart territory’. With its high-quality industrial base and top-flight higher education providers, Fribourg has what it takes to succeed. Also, the excellent cooperation that the Fribourg Development Agency has nurtured over years with academia and industry associations will help fast track this transformation. One of the main beneficiaries will be SMEs, who tend to have limited, if any, in-house R&D resources.

So, tech transfer plays a key role in making territories smart?

Absolutely, and the canton of Fribourg is at the vanguard. Since 2016 there have been around 15 collaborative projects involving academia and over 50 companies. There is always at least one public research body, like a university, that is involved in the problem-solving process, and the project findings are shared with all participants. Thanks to this approach, 1+1=3!