<p>The aim of the article is to discuss in detail the design and implementation process of the regional innovation policy based on smart specialisation (RIS3) in the Małopolska region and to present conclusions and challenges for the management of the new generation RIS3. The authors join the ongoing debate on the desired model of RIS3 policy and the process of entrepreneurial discovery (EDP). The article uses the case study methodology, based on desk research, unstructured interviews, and participant observation. It describes the changes in RIS3 policy management in the period from 2010 to today. It offers a level of detail not achieved in the existing descriptions of the region regarding RIS3 management. The developed case study is characterised by a high level of validity, allowing not only the practical use of the case, but also profiling of the region for the purposes of comparative research on RIS3 management. The course of implementing the RIS3 policy is presented in chronological and process-related terms. The thesis is put forward that the current results of this implementation are not only dependent on the generally understood policy capacity of public administration, but should be perceived as conditioned, to some extent, by organisational learning (OL). This is only the first step towards successful implementation of RIS3 and must be accompanied by a significant increase in organisational and political capacity. A model of the impact of learning on the achievement of the appropriate level of analytical, organisational, and political capacity is proposed.</p>