Lakeside Innovation Area - From Science & Technology Park To Area Of Innovation

The transition to AOIs requires strategic alignment of stakeholders, development of specialized infrastructure, and creation of attractive living and work environments. STPs play a crucial role in orchestrating this transition, fostering regional development, and enhancing innovation ecosystems. The success of this transformation hinges on effective stakeholder engagement, specialized branding, and overcoming institutional resistance to change. The future Lakeside Innovation Area in Austria exemplifies the evolution from Science & Technology Parks (STPs) to Areas of Innovation (AOIs), leveraging strategic collaboration between universities, research institutes, companies, and regional stakeholders. Established in 2002, Lakeside Park and 12 years later High Tech Campus Villach serve as prominent STPs focusing on ICT and EBS sectors, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Carinthia. Both parks facilitate knowledge transfer, offer state-of-the-art facilities, and promote collaboration among members. With the development of high-speed transportation infrastructure like the Choralm tunnel, connecting Carinthia and Styria, there is potential for further synergy and innovation between these regions.