Clusters: why are they becoming the basis of the modern economy?
on April 29, the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region hosted the first strategic session on the formation of requirements for the regional cluster program.
The event marked the beginning of an important process. Today, Ukraine needs more than just business to restore and develop its regions – it needs an ecosystem of cooperation. This is exactly what the cluster economy model provides.
What is the cluster economy?
A cluster is when companies, educational and research institutions, government, and public organizations interact within the same industry or area. But the key is not just to work together, but to coordinate efforts, share technologies, create joint products, and develop markets together.
According to the European Cluster Observatory:
- Companies in clusters create 20% more jobs
- The innovation of companies in clusters is 60% higher
- The level of investment attraction in regions with a developed cluster policy grows 2-3 times faster
Why is it important for Ukraine right now?
During the war and in the post-war period, the efficiency of resource use becomes critical. Clusters make it possible to
- optimize production processes
- reduce costs
- increase competitiveness
- attract international partners
- create added value locally
What is the role of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region?
The Agency is a participant in the formation of a cluster development strategy in the region:
- we conduct analytics and assess the potential
- coordinate the interaction of business, education and government
- provide expert support for the development of a regional cluster program
- attract international resources to support the creation of clusters
What’s next?
Based on the agreed conclusions of the first session, we will identify priority areas for cluster development in the region. We are not just creating a program – we are laying the foundation for a sustainable economy in Odesa region in the new reality.
