FROM SECTORS TO REGIONS - ASSESSMENT OF COMPETITIVENESS SUPPORT OF FIRMS FROM STRUCTURAL FUNDS

There has been much discussion on how regional policy should be set. Some theories and experience speak for a policy based on the specific characteristics of regions, in some countries; however, it is recognized by the sector-based approaches. The present article aims to assess the European Union support in terms of differences in the adjustment of aid in sectors in different regions. We assume that regional policy should support those sectors in regions that are competitive. This means across the board should not only be supported selected sectors but the policy must respect specific situation of sectors in various regions. Empirical analysis is based on evaluation of support in two selected countries of Central and Eastern Europe - the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Specifically, the paper provides an analysis of competitiveness support of companies and distribution of this aid by sectors and regions. Conclusions of empirical research indicate significant differences in sectoral and territorial distribution of aid, despite the fact that there are two neighbouring countries with similar support setting and with common history, which joined the European Union at the same time.