Global and Local Enterprises Facing the Challenges of the Learning Region

The main aim of this paper is to present research findings on the development of the learning region in the Silesia voivodship, Poland. The theoretical framework based on Florida's considerations was used to interpret in-depth interviews with entrepreneurs recruited from regional enterprises. Research was conducted in all four sub-regions of the viovodship which differ in the cultural context as well as the level of development and industrial tradition. The main examined relation was the interconnections between human capital, innovation ability and cooperation between all main actors. The main conclusions show that the knowledge economy sets new rules for the functioning of enterprises and the market. Industrial regions transform their economy with specially appointed institutions. It also depends on the entrepreneurs themselves, their attitudes and approaches to knowledge and learning. Knowledge is now becoming a key resource. The results of the empirical research in the Silesia region also confirm a growing interest in innovation. However businesses are still not clear about scientific and institutional cooperation in the creation of knowledge capital.