Technology Park Split – strengthening innovative entrepreneurship with smart brownfield investment

The project addressed the challenge of revitalizing abandoned brownfield sites and the need to foster entrepreneurship, particularly in the high-tech sector. The location of the former Dračevac military barracks represented an underutilized urban space with significant potential for developing entrepreneurial infrastructure and creating new economic value through growth of innovative micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.

This brownfield project was co-funded by the ERDF under ITI mechanism and in line with the SUD strategy for Split Urban Agglomeration.

The implementation was based on a phased approach, carried out through two interconnected activities: the first phase included the reconstruction, extension, and upgrading of the building, while the second phase involved the finalization of construction works and full furnishing and equipping to make the facility operational.

For this project implementation, the project team (comprising of six people from three departments of the City of Split) has been assigned in accordance with the requirements of the project activities, available professional staff, and other essential elements for the successful implementation of this project. The Department for City Development was responsible for the complete implementation and reporting of the project under the grant agreement, the Department for Urban Planning was involved in the process of adopting the detailed urban plan for the Dračevac working zone and issuing required permits for construction, and the Department for Property and Legal Affairs and Construction was tasked to resolve existing property and legal issues linked with the land donation agreement. In addition, the city Department for Communal Affairs coordinated the implementation of access roads, driveways and other communal issues, while the City Office supported to the promotion and visibility of the project. Upon the Project's completion, Technology Park Split is now managed by Split Development Agency – RaST, owned by the City of Split, providing support for the development of entrepreneurship.

A city owned entity, Technology Park Split is an entrepreneurial-supporting infrastructure established with the aim of providing support for the development of entrepreneurship, with a special focus on activities in the field of high technologies. It is managed by Split Development Agency – RaST, providing services to support the start-up and growth of innovative entrepreneurship through incubation and acceleration programs. Additionally, the project idea was developed together with high-tech SMEs from the Split Urban Agglomeration area, which participated (through surveys and workshops) in creating the content and programs of the technology park. Representatives of University were included in the drafting, implementation, and monitoring of SUD strategy as members of the Partnership Council, Focus Groups and Working Groups.

Key objectives were the development of high-quality entrepreneurial infrastructure, the creation of conditions to strengthen innovative entrepreneurship, the diversification of the local economy, and the contribution to sustainable urban development.

The project's strong points include: the transformation of an abandoned brownfield site into a modern entrepreneurial center, the integration of diverse facilities (rental and incubation offices, coworking spaces, conference rooms, laboratories, childcare area, fitness zone), professional management through city-owned agency, and clearly defined target groups (start-ups, innovative businesses, scientific community).

Project outputs strongly contributed to green urban regeneration by prioritizing the reuse of existing structures and minimizing land consumption. Environmental sustainability was a guiding principle during all stages of planning and implementation, ensuring full compliance with the DNSH principle. Special attention was given to energy efficiency, resource optimization, and the promotion of sustainable forms of economic activity, aligning the project with broader EU Green Deal objectives.

The strategy was implemented through clearly defined activities: reconstruction and extension, final construction works, interior furnishing and equipment installation, establishment of a management system, and promotional activities. By engaging several city departments during implementation and utilizing ERDF resources, the project was completed successfully within the planned timeframes.

Enabling factors included the availability of EU funding, local political support, the expertise of the project team, collaboration with the local business sector and university, and a clear focus on smart, sustainable, and resilient development.

Challenges encountered included technical demands related to the reconstruction of military infrastructure, the complexity of public procurement processes, and the coordination between different city departments and external contractors. Nevertheless, flexibility in management, strong collaboration among stakeholders, and a clear project vision enabled the successful achievement of all set objectives.

Ten months after its opening in July 2024, Technology Park Split is implementing incubation and acceleration programs for 16 startups, with another startup moving in soon. Another 12 startups are part of the accelerator program, some of which use physical offices at the new premises, while other use a virtual incubator. Five micro, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs, 5 MSEs are currently operating from TPS, while another 25 MSEs have signed preliminary contracts and are waiting for the completion of the unfinished space so that they can move into their offices. TPS has 7 permanent users of coworking space. So far, 93 events have been held in the halls of the Split Technology Park conference centre.

Technology Park Split offers a valuable model for other urban authorities seeking to revitalize brownfield sites and stimulate high-tech entrepreneurship. The project's phased execution, initially focusing on structural reconstruction followed by comprehensive outfitting, exemplifies a financially prudent methodology for managing intricate urban regeneration initiatives.

Key transferable elements include strong alignment with local entrepreneurial needs, integration of diverse facilities (coworking spaces, laboratories, childcare, and recreational zones), and public ownership with professional management (via city-owned development agency). For cities facing similar challenges, it is recommended to combine physical infrastructure investments with business support services, prioritize flexible and innovation-friendly spaces, and ensure clear governance structures. The project's success highlights the importance of EU funding, cross-departmental collaboration within city administrations, and consistent promotion to attract innovative businesses and strengthen local economies.

https://tps.com.hr/