The regional entrepreneurial fabric has a growing need to support new innovative initiatives, while strengthening the capacity of existing start-ups to grow, attract investment and generate competitive impact in the region. Integrated programmes are needed that combine strategic support, access to specialist skills, networking and financial opportunities.

Romagna Startup Network offers two programmes: a 12-month incubation programme for 16 early-stage start-ups and a 6-month acceleration programme for 6 start-ups in the scale-up phase.

Thanks to the integration of the expertise of the three partners – Romagna Tech, CISE and Fondazione Piano Strategico – the project offers comprehensive support that combines:

• personalised mentoring and coaching;
• specialised training on business models, customer discovery, marketing and market strategy;
• fundraising;
• technical and specialist advice for product and business model development;
• access to equipped spaces and co-working services;
• networking opportunities with investors, companies and technology partners;
• open innovation programmes to facilitate encounters between start-ups, companies and local stakeholders.

The RSN model can be replicated in other local contexts that aim to:

• strengthening the local innovation ecosystem;
• supporting start-ups in the deep-tech, digital, sustainability and advanced manufacturing sectors;
• developing Open Innovation and Technology Transfer programmes and opportunities;
• creating connections between businesses, investors, incubators and institutions.

The modular structure of the programmes allows them to be adapted to different production sectors and specialised supply chains.

• Romagna Tech (Lead Partner);
• CISE – Centre for Innovation and Economic Development;
• Strategic Plan Foundation