The Interreg Europe 1st call project CLUSTERIX 2.0 (2016-2021) successfully improved cluster policy instruments in the partner regions and countries. We created new tools for monitoring clusters and related policies, uncovered opportunities for new services that help SMEs foster innovation and increase their competitiveness. We improved communication between policy makers and clusters to get better support for SMEs. We learned that cluster organisations can be valuable partners for policy makers, they can help design and implement innovation strategies. In total CLUSTERIX 2.0 leveraged more than 13 Mio. EUR into funding innovation. We have supported 117 interregional and regional learning events. 60 people from nine different regions reported increased their capacities and we facilitated 70 new multilateral cluster and cross-cluster projects.
Now CLUSTERIX 2.0 received the approval for its Interreg Europe 5th call application, which allows us the continue our exchange of experience for one more year with a focus on the effects of the COVID19 crisis.
Covid19 has severely hit our economy, some sectors stronger than others. It has shown weaknesses of our globalized value chains, especially in the health care sector. It gave a tremendous boost to digital transformation and has very clearly changed the way we work. It raised the hope that there is now an opportunity to recover economy in a more sustainable way. The European Expert Group on Clusters reaffirms that clusters have the potential to accelerate twin green and digital transition, build resilience and boost recovery.
The CLUSTERIX 2.0 partnership will exchange experience on how policy makers can support and work in close partnership with clusters, specifically addressing 3 aspects: a more resilient health system, digital transformation and a more sustainable recovery of the regional economy towards green transition.
