Cluster Policy as a Determining Factor for Development of World Class-Clusters

Abstract

The article aims to characterize the significance of cluster policy (cluster-based policy) for the development of world-class clusters. It indicates that the clusters functioning in the European Union (EU) member states are of very diversified nature, which ensues, inter alia, from different conditions (endo -and exogenous) of their development. The evolution of the clustering concept contributed to a greater interest and engagement of governmental organizations of European, national and regional levels in the process of direct and indirect support of cluster development. This kind of support is attributed to cluster policy. This policy, in principle, owing to various actions and instruments undertaken in coordination and stimulating the growth of clusters is supposed to contribute to the maximization of cluster synergy effect, accelerate economic growth, improve the competitiveness of an economy and the development of a knowledge-based economy. A crucial element of this policy is stimulating interactions between business, R&D sector, business support institutions and local and national government agencies in the development process of entrepreneurial ecosystems.The impact of the cluster policy on the cluster development and formation of world-class clusters is presented at the example of German and French cluster policy which focuses on building the cluster management excellence.Although they constitute an example of an organization of commercial nature, clusters necessitate active public support. Contemporary cluster policy particularly in EU countries is frequently of horizontal nature. It often consists in offering public support for the development of clusters of the greater competitive potential, which have the real chance of obtaining world-class cluster status. Owing to active R&D activity and international cooperation with key stakeholders, clusters of this type demonstrate the ability to develop strong cluster value chains. The achievement of the world-class cluster level requires cluster management excellence. Hence, the concepts of world-class clusters and cluster management excellence continuously create new strategic challenges for cluster management.

National Strategic Documents on Cluster Policy as a Source of Challenges for Cluster Management in Poland

“…Cluster policy plays an important role in the economic policy of the European Union. Many European countries perceive it as a significant tool for influencing the growth of entrepreneurship, innovation and competitiveness of regional and national economies (Bembenek et al, 2016;Pavelkova et al, 2019). The value of the conducted research is the identification of relevant strategic documents, the provisions of which make up the cluster policy in Poland, as well as its assessment in terms of the role and scope of impact on cluster organisations, and, consequently, the challenges posed by cluster managers.…”

Kierunki Rozwoju Polityki Klastrowej W Polsce W Pierwszej Dekadzie Funkcjonowania Klastrów (2003–2013)

“…podkarpackie) oraz Klaster Kotlarski (woj. wielkopolskie) 3 . Po drugie -był to czas rozpoznawania idei klasteringu, określania jej wizji i celów.…”

Internationalization Through Networks – Strategic Challenge for Cluster Facilitator

“…A number of researchers and politicians suggest, that the cluster internationalization provides new opportunities for cluster members, especially for cluster SMEs. It can help these kind of firms to improve their competitiveness and accelerate their presence in global value chains 4 . Studies on clustering have also shown that the idea of business cluster there is an interconnection between economic-production and socio-cultural conditions, which significantly contribute to business profitability 5 .…”