The impact of European R&D programmes on SMEs in peripheral regions

This paper looks at the impact of the change in both theoretical thinking and policy making on the role of the promotion of research and development in sustainable development. In particular it is concerned with how such a policy shift has impacted on the functioning of SMEs in peripheral regions. This is done by reporting on the findings of a series of EU funded case studies looking at development issues amongst SMEs in peripheral regions of Europe. The findings generally paint a disappointing picture of little perceived impact amongst such SME with issues of spatial isolation and exclusion still being significant.