VBN InnoReg project was implemented by 18 partner organizations from 10 regions in the Via Baltica Nordica (VBN) macro-region sharing similar challenges in promoting innovation system development. VBN is one of the most dynamically developing areas in the Baltic Sea region (BSR). VBN InnoReg promoted the competitiveness of the VBN macro-region by supporting regional innovation system (RIS) development through regional and transnational cooperation.VBN InnoReg promoted transnational networking and regional collaboration between regional authorities, universities, technology centres and enterprises to foster economic performance of the BSR. A shared vision for 2017 and a strategic joint approach to innovation promotion were created during the project through analyzing the dynamics of regional innovation systems, joint interests and development needs in VBN partner regions. Through regional pilot activities and exchange of experiences in VBN InnoReg, innovation actors on the VBN zone have improved knowledge on concrete tools, work methods and best practices in developing the RIS. Achievements: Main achievements of parallel regional and transnational operations:1) VBN joint approach to innovation promotion was developed through analyzing regional innovation systems and selecting comparable innovation performance indicators in Tampere Region, South Ostrobothnia, Tartu, 5 planning regions in Latvia, Kaunas, Podlaskie, Brandenburg and Bentwisch-Rostock. Common development challenges, opportunities for transnational cooperation in innovation promotion and a joint development vision for 2017 were identified in the joint approach.2) Regional training events and study tours were organized to ensure capacity building of key innovation system actors and sustainability of the RIS analyses results.3) Key innovation actors skills and knowledge on concrete tools and best practises in developing the RIS were improved by piloting new innovative tools and concepts. Pilot activities focused on innovative enterprises and financing instruments, start-up support, networking, technology transfer, and entrepreneurial culture development. They were developed in Umeå, Tampere Region, South Ostrobothnia, Tartu, Riga Region, Podlaskie, Brandenburg and Bentwisch-Rostock.Reports, manuals and other project material were published on key project activities and results and were shared with interested actors in the BSR and in the EU.VBN InnoReg involved partners from seven BSR countries: Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany.