Changing the development path of a region - a case study of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship

A case study of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship is presented in this article. From the European Union's perspective, Lower Silesia is an example of a less developed region; however, it is also an example of a region that has improved significantly in regards to development due to a change in its innovation model. The purpose of this article is to identify the factors that have had an impact on the change in the region's development path (stimulants), as well as to indicate the weaknesses and barriers limiting further development. This article is based on a review of the literature, statistical data analysis as well as structured, in-depth interviews that were conducted with representatives of regional and local authorities, scientific units and business-related institutions. Recommendations for the regional policy of Lower Silesia have been formulated on this basis.