Given the debate on economic policy in Europe, we thought the stories behind these examples might be of interest to regional policymakers and others responsible for economic development in EU member states. We undertook this study because we have been impressed by the efficiency of a recurring pattern that in Europe might be called 'regional policy'. Without suggesting that these American success stories are directly transferable to the European context, this study looks at the practical steps that were undertaken over the last two decades in some formerly recession stricken or slowly growing regions of the U.S., and which now are paying big dividends. The key has been the interplay between the private sector, educational institutions, and local, state and federal governments. The main findings of our work are consolidated in the following pages.
Reproduction is authorized provided the source is acknowledged.
Copyright European Union, 2000.