The role of Integrated Territorial Investments in supporting the competitiveness of enterprises by the example of Bialystok Functional Area

Abstract

Integrated Territorial Investments (ITI) is a new support instrument dedicated to solving specific territorial problems of urban functional areas. About 6% of the allocation of the Regional Operational Program for Podlaskie Voivodship 2014-2020 is planned for realization of activities implemented in frame of ITI in the Białystok Functional Area (BFA). This support is for: strengthening the potential and competitiveness of the region's economy, enhancing competences and qualifications, low carbon economy and improving social cohesion. In particular, the support for business development by increasing investment attractiveness is planned. Allocation of ITI for this purpose is ca. 13,7 mln EUR. The aim of the article is to assess the state of entrepreneurship development and the range of support for the competitiveness of enterprises in the BFA in frame of ITI instrument. It will be presented a case study of projects implementing in BFA in frame of ITI instrument to support enterprise development and research conducted by Bialystok Functional Area Association (BFAA). Case study will be preceded by an analysis of the competitiveness of the local entrepreneurship and analysis of theoretical issues.