Importance Of Triple (Quadruple) Helix Concept For Regional Development – Case Study: Faculty Of Economics In Osijek

The conception of Triple Helix concept happened during the 1990s, with a purpose of encouraging cooperation between three institutional domains (university – industry – government), thus contributing to productivity of a knowledge-based society, where the role of innovations was crucial for creating economic growth and maintaining it. Facing with global economic issues and changes, the risk and challenges of a growing, insecure and complex environment, a need arose for a new role and function of universities. Instead of the traditional role of teaching, the emphasis has been put on universities as socially responsible subjects in social and economic development of every country. Adapting to market needs, J. J. Strossmayer University in Osijek is developing programs and participating in projects which are in demand, thus contributing to both the economy and society as a whole. One of those projects is project A.C.T.I.V.E. – Activity and Creativity Through Ideas and Ventures = Employment, started by Faculty of Economics in Osijek in cooperation with Center for Entrepreneurship, Osijek and Croatian Employers’ Association, Osijek Regional Office, BIOS d.o.o. - business incubator in Osijek, four high schools, Osijek-Baranja County and Croatian Employment Institute, Osijek Regional Office, with the main goal of this project being to improve prerequisites for employability and self-employability of young people in Slavonia and Baranja, especially college and high school graduates as well as inexperienced unemployed people. The goal of this paper is to highlight the significance of Triple Helix concept in the process of transformation into a knowledge-based society, with a goal of increasing competitiveness, productivity and employment, and together with that ensuring a stable and sustainable economic growth.