Caught Between Metropolises: The Smart Specialisation Challenge in Poland’s Lubusz Region

This study examines the relevance of Smart Specialisation Strategies (RIS3) in structurally weak but non-peripheral regions, focusing on Lubusz Voivodeship in western Poland. The analysis uses employment data from 2009 and 2021 and applies the Location Quotient (LQ) method to evaluate the alignment between the region’s economic structure and its three RIS3 domains: Innovative Industry, Health and Quality of Life, and Green Economy. The findings indicate increased specialisation in metal fabrication and social services, suggesting partial validation of the adopted priorities. In contrast, some traditional manufacturing sectors experienced decline, while green economy areas showed limited growth. These results highlight the need for more adaptive, place-sensitive RIS3 frameworks, particularly in regions with institutional fragmentation and limited absorptive capacity. The case of Lubusz illustrates broader challenges in applying innovation policy within structurally constrained environments.