The Podkarpackie Region in southeastern Poland is a hidden gem, full of natural beauty and abundant resources. With its vast forests, including the Bieszczady National Park, it’s a region of stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage. However, behind the beauty lies a region facing significant challenges, including high unemployment rates and low levels of entrepreneurship. Despite this, the region is home to a vibrant academic community, with 16 universities and over 70,000 students. The industry is thriving, with a focus on aerospace, electromechanical, chemical, and food sectors. The region also boasts rich resources of medicinal waters, which are used in four health resorts. However, the agricultural sector faces challenges due to agrarian fragmentation, with most farms having an area of just 2–5 hectares. RIBES will develop innovative tools that empower the community and facilitate social innovation, benefiting the region’s residents directly. Through RIBES the region can achieve its full potential and become a thriving hub of entrepreneurship and innovation.