The 2nd International Conference for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Regional Development (ICEIRD-2009) is taking place on the 24th and 25th of April 2009, in Thessaloniki, Greece. The theme for this year's conference is "Entrepreneurship and Innovation Crossroads Triggers, Catalysts and Accelerators for Sustainable Regional Development". The conference is organised by City College - Affiliated Institution of the University of Sheffield, Thessaloniki, and the South East European Research Centre (SEERC).
ICEIRD 2009 aims to provide an effective channel of communication between decision-makers (government, ministries and state agencies), researchers (universities, research and development centres, start-up centres and incubators), practitioners (SME leaders and managers) and persons concerned with the latest research, scientific development and practice on innovation and entrepreneurship in order to discuss topics that are of currency, relevance and significance for national competitiveness as well as sustainable, robust , and equitable regional development. ICEIRD09 aims to:
- address key factors in regional economic development, entrepreneurial vitality and innovation processes
- raise the level of awareness about innovation, entrepreneurship and competitive advantage
- strengthen the regional and international network among representatives from SEE countries and those from EU member states
- consolidate intra-SEE networks of SMEs, Start-up Centers and Incubators
- understand cultural and national barriers of entrepreneurship in the global economy
- promote best practices in innovation research and business development
- facilitate regional partnerships and innovation networks
The conference is addressed at regional and international level and is targeted to academics, entrepreneurs, policy-makers, researchers and students who are involved in the latest research, scientific development and practice on innovation and entrepreneurship.
