Evaluation of the Institutional Effectiveness of Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) in Peru: The Case of Tacna

Abstract

This paper analyzes the institutional effectiveness of the Regional Development Agencies (ARD) in Peru through a case study of the Tacna ARD. Empirical evidence is drawn from surveys and interviews with members of the Strategic Committee and key stakeholders involved in the Regional Development and Innovation Strategy (EDIR). Findings reveal heterogeneous performance across the dimensions of governance, innovation, and competence transfer. While the Tacna ARD has consolidated inter-institutional coordination and progress in applied innovation projects, gaps persist regarding continuity, financing, and staff professionalization. The study concludes that ARD effectiveness relies on the formalization of multi-level governance structures, the institutionalization of performance dashboards (V1–V10), and stronger links between academia and the productive sector. The proposed framework can be replicated in other Peruvian regions