The «Emilian Model» for the Twenty-First Century

The main purpose of this paper is to update the analysis of the «Emilian model». For decades, this Model has been the topic of many debates well beyond the Italian boundaries, mainly because of its ability to balance efficiency (e.g. productivity) and equity (e.g. social cohesion). Top ranking Region both at national and European level, the Emilia-Romagna economic system is undergoing a real «Metamorphosis», as pointed out in the 2008 EUNIP contribution. Now, three case studies enable us to shed light on this process of change: the industrial districts - or clusters - of Carpi (textile/clothing), Sassuolo (ceramic tiles), and Reggio Emilia (mechatronics). In particular, this change amounts to the rise of medium-sized enterprises, which are in a better position to manage upstream and downstream activities (e.g., R&D, design, marketing, etc.) involving fixed costs. A series of remarks about the New Industrial Policy envisaged by D. Rodrik in his seminal papers completes our analysis. In the Knowledge Era we advocate stronger cooperation between local authorities, universities and private firms.