• Initiate a Model Regions for Smart Networks funding programme: government support for model regions and lighthouse projects are a prerequisite for significant value added for society and the economy, especially in the basic sectors, e.g. education, health, energy, transportation and public administration. For supporting experimental spaces and model regions, the federal government will systematically review the legal framework with regard to provisions that help to open up opportunities and allow for experimentation (see the topic of experimental spaces in Item 3.). •E  stablish a nationwide Alliances for Digitisation programme: the alliances will be based on the idea that digitisation affects everyone and is a practical process that evolves from the interaction between business, the government and individuals at a local level. The Alliances for Digitisation should activate the model regions and encourage cooperation on a local and regional level, between central and local government agencies, companies, associations, professional organisations and private individuals with the goal of determining and implementing specific measures for digitisation in a regional context. A services office on the federal level will initiate these alliances and assist them in planning and operation (structure, determining a strategy, course of action, coaching, communication, etc.). •C  reate an accelerator for smart networks projects: an accelerator will support young companies right after they have been established, from the development phase up to presentation of a business plan to investors, by providing work space, strategic and technical support, access to networks and, if necessary, a small amount of financial assistance. www.de.digital 31