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Where the cluster winds are blowing …and how policy makers should respond

TCI San Sebastian 19 October 2012 Cecilia.Johansson@Vinnova.se, isabelle.lebo@oseo.fr,

Isabelle Lebo, OSEOCecilia Johansson, Vinnova

Tactics : Transnational Alliance of Clusters Towards Improved Cooperation Support

Trends in the use of clusters as a policy tool…What have we seen???

• Evolution of the concept of clusters

• Opening innovation processes through clusters

• Smart implementation and integration of cluster related policies

• Continued strengthening of cluster initiatives

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What´s happening in Europe – a decade laterSome examples

•Start-up of new cluster programmes in several countries •Promoting intercluster cooperation (Catalonia, Spain)•Involvement of regional clusters in the national innovation system (Austria•Better integration of regional and national policies (Netherlands)•Efforts for internationalisation of clusters(Norway)•Thematic clusters (Finland)•Efforts for adapting private financing (France)•Professional cluster management important

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Future challenges for policy makers

• Use clusters to engage SMEs and to achieve effective implementation of innovation policies

• Building on existing areas of strength (smart specialisation) while opening new areas for growth (emerging industries)

• Stimulate and facilitate new interactions

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Future challenges for policy makers

• Make the key assets more visible• Demonstrate the performance of the cluster initiative• Greater involvement of users• Professionalisation of cluster management

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This means…….Clusters are central to innovation and

competitiveness

New cluster interactions drive growth

Clusters must leverage and promote key assets to gain a competitive edge

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Who´s responsible?

•7 Tactics partners : providing content

•15 experts contributors: the « Reflection Group » •120 members reacting :

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Picture of the Tactics publications

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www.eca-tactics.eu

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