The ECPG’s final report Structured in two parts: Three core principles for the next stage of cluster programmes Eight action proposals directed at both the EU and Member State levels Final report and consolidated PR available at: side 2

side 3 Three principles for the next stage of cluster programmes A. Cluster programmes need to be leveraged with vigorous efforts to strengthen framework conditions B. Public support for cluster programmes needs to be based on clusters’ ability and willingness to upgrade in the face of global competition C. Cluster programmes need to be delivered in an integrated policy framework with clearly assigned roles and responsibilities for the Commission and EU Member States

side 4 Eight proposals for action 1. Align funding priorities in the EU budget with competitiveness 2. Enhance cluster-related framework conditions 3. Review current profile of funding recipients at EU and Member State levels 4. Encourage better cluster programmes at the EU Member State level

side 5 Eight proposals for action 5. Streamline EU funding for clusters by creating a unified set of administrative procedures 6. Improve coordination of cluster programmes across DGs 7. Institutionalise the provision of the cluster knowledge/data base 8. Enhance European platforms for cluster collaboration

The complementary report – the consolidated set of PR Structured along four themes: Better Support to International Cluster Cooperation The Role of Clusters in Support of Emerging Industries Raising the Excellence of Clusters and Cluster Organisations Creating Better Synergies between Community Instruments for Cluster Excellence side 6

The complementary report – the consolidated set of PR Structured along four themes: Better Support to International Cluster Cooperation The Role of Clusters in Support of Emerging Industries Raising the Excellence of Clusters and Cluster Organisations Creating Better Synergies between Community Instruments for Cluster Excellence side 7

Better Support to International Cluster Cooperation – what are the problems?  In general, a lack of critical mass leading to a need to link-up to other clusters to enable access to new markets, research experts and knowledge infrastructure  In particular: o Lack of structured information on clusters’ internationalisation needs and potential partners o Low capabilities for working strategically with international partners o Lack of tailored financing schemes for internationalisation activities o Lack of structured opportunities for meeting and developing relations with potential international partners (including tailored mobility schemes between cluster stakeholders) side 8

Three Recommendations 1. Provide Data on the Real Cluster Landscape i. Provide an open and interactive platform on which more detailed information on clusters could be registered and used by the clusters themselves ii. Expand statistical data available through the European Cluster Observatory to include data on performance and framework conditions, and at greater levels of disaggregation 2. Promote Strategic and Commercial Networking of Clusters i. Offer co-funding of national programmes that allow funding of cluster participants located in other EU Member States ii. Improve networking of clusters within the EU and globally through financial schemes/programmes geared to commercial-collaborative projects on EU-level and internationally iii. Take on more focused efforts to ensure market conditions conducive to international cooperation (e.g. low administrative burdens, etc.) iv. Solicit the development of a toolbox for cooperation among clusters aiming at international networking and internationalisation side 9

Three Recommendations (continued) 3. Promote International Mobility of Cluster Actors i. Develop transnational mobility schemes for cluster actors (including companies, academia and managers) ii. Expand Marie Curie actions to include firm employees and cluster managers (and not just researchers) iii. Explore development and piloting of a European Cross-Cluster Mentoring Programme targeted at developing competencies needed in cluster management side 10

What is being done? side 11 Recommendations 1. Provide Data on the Real Cluster Landscape i. Provide an open and interactive platform used by the clusters themselves ii. Expand statistical data to include data on performance and framework conditions 2. Promote Strategic and Commercial Networking of Clusters i. Co-fund national programmes that allow funding of cluster participants located in other MS ii. Improve networking of clusters within the EU and globally through financial schemes/programmes iii. Take on more focused efforts to ensure market conditions conducive to international cooperation iv. Develop a toolbox for clusters aiming at international networking and internationalisation Actions underway (ECEI) Cluster Collaboration Platform European Cluster Observatory + new call New call (TACTICS) Action Area on Financing – Innovation Express (TACTICS) ”Handbook” on International Cluster Cooperation

What is being done? side 12 Recommendations 3. Promote International Mobility of Cluster Actors i. Develop transnational mobility schemes for cluster actors (including companies, academia and managers) ii. Expand Marie Curie actions to include firm employees and cluster managers (and not just researchers) iii. Explore development and piloting of a European Cross-Cluster Mentoring Programme targeted at developing competencies needed in cluster management Actions underway (TACTICS) Action Area on Better Skills for Internationalisation – Mentoring Scheme (in cooperation with ECEI) + (TACTICS) Action Area on Inter-Cluster Initiatives + (TACTICS) Action Area on International Access to Open (and User-driven) Innovation Arenas