Instytucjonalne formy wsparcia inwestycji zagranicznych w sektor badawczo-rozwojowy na Dolnym Śląsku
Institutional forms of support of foreign investments in the research and development sector in Lower Silesia

Summary/Abstract: Lower Silesia is a very attractive location for foreign investors, which is reflected in the size of the inflow of the FDI from different regions of the world. The vast majority of foreign investments is in the field of production, but there can be noticed a gradual involvement of transnational corporations in activities at higher levels of the value chain creation – the creation of research and development centers in the region. Lower Silesia is attractive for investors for several reasons: high level of economic development, a very good geopolitical position, a high level of industrial development and access to highly skilled labor, thanks to the functioning of many universities in the region. Additionally, the development of the innovation base and the cooperation between science and business are valued, as well as the involvement of business-related institutions. There are a lot of of factors influencing the set up of the R&D centers in a particular country and region. Among them is the involvement of local authorities in supporting the development of such activities by creating the right climate, necessary infrastructure, financial support or information. The region of Lower Silesia is a great place to conduct empirical research. This article aims to identify if and what kinds of forms of support are used by the regional authorities to lure transnational corporations that invest in research and development. In order to fulfill the research objective, the first part of the paper employs secondary data – domestic and foreign literature, statistical studies and source materials. The second part presents the results of empirical research (in-depth interviews) conducted among institutions involved in the process of attracting investments into the region. Business entities and authorities in Lower Silesia use general instruments of support and promotion of FDI, and they do not have special tools addressed only to the R&D sector. Additional actions are implemented ad hoc when an investor requires additional information or help. It is very important to promote the region’s assets, including accurate and best presentation of the offer, combined with initiating and facilitating contacts with universities, research centers and technology parks. It is to be expected that further support will be developed in the following years.

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