Smart Innovations as Accelerators for SMEs in Rural Areas

Abstract

Innovative approaches are driving the stabilization, development, and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The introduction of smart concepts has a favourable impact on their activities. At present, urban areas and urban projects are more preferred and supported. The importance and benefits of rural areas and SMEs' engagement therein is underestimated in terms of country development at the European level. This contribution aims to point out innovative approaches that contribute to the development of SMEs and smart cities or regions using best practice examples from abroad with a focus on specific rural areas in the Czech Republic—where this issue is gaining momentum. The analysis of best practice examples and expert opinions in this field was used to make comparisons and to summarise the knowledge gained. This contribution also serves as a basis for mapping the factors that can support regional development and growth, as well as provides recommendations for future follow-ups and new concepts for the coming years in Czech rural areas, or areas that are culturally similar, such as Slovak rural areas.