Call for Papers: Pathways to Future Regional Development. Submit by February 20, 2025.

The Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO), the Regional Studies Association (RSA) and the research network on Smart Policies for Regional Innovation, Sustainability and Transitions (SPRINT) are pleased to announce a one-day workshop on Pathways to Future Regional Development on May 20th, 2025, focusing on the themes of sustainability, inequality and innovation.

This one-day workshop at the Austrian Institute of Economic Research in Vienna aims to foster in-depth discussion and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. Participants will engage with approximately 25–30 attendees working on closely related topics and questions.

We invite the submission of papers addressing emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in fostering sustainable and innovative regional development. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Sustainable regional development strategies

• The role of global value chains in local development

• Innovation in green technologies & transitions

• Policy interventions for sustainability & innovation

• Unequal local economic development & inequalities

• Skills transfer, labour market dynamics & gender inequalities

We welcome both theoretical and applied research submissions, particularly those employing innovative methods or data. Submissions can take the form of extended abstracts or full papers. Deadline for Submissions: February 20th, 2025

Submission Format: Extended abstracts (up to 2000 words) or full papers (approximately 7000 words)

Submission Process: Please submit via e-mail to sprint.rsa.network@gmail.com

Please make sure to include the names of all co-authors and specify who will be the presenter. Papers will be selected based on originality, relevance, and contribution to the session's theme. Travel funds up to £250 are available for RSA members. Please indicate your interest with your submission.

Organisers: ANNA BURTON, Austrian Institute of Economic Research; JULIA BACHTRÖGLER-UNGER, Austrian Institute of Economic Research; MARTINA PARDY, London School of Economics and Political Sciences; DIMAYANKOVA, ANETI Lab, Corvinus University of Budapest; EDUARDO HERNÁNDEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Utrecht University; BENJAMIN CORNEJO COSTAS, Utrecht University.