On 2 February, the #Clusters4Regions Cluster Management School officially launched—an acceleration programme designed for cluster managers and coordinators who don’t just take an interest in clusters, but actively build and develop them.
The training is part of the Clusters4Regions initiative, implemented by the Ukrainian Cluster Alliance at the request of the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, with the support of the Swiss-Ukrainian Project UCORD.
The programme, which has brought together 82 participants, combines two months of training with three months of mentoring. It is designed to strengthen the capacity of cluster managers to systematically build and develop clusters—from shaping a clear value proposition to launching services and projects.
Who is the programme designed for:
- Cluster managers with up to three years of experience who are in the early stages of developing their managerial role within a cluster;
- Coordinators of cluster initiatives involved in shaping and advancing cluster ecosystems;
- Representatives of established clusters seeking to enhance their managerial and organisational maturity;
- Representatives of regional development agencies, local self-government bodies, and other institutions responsible for implementing cluster policy.
Programme Content and Focus:
- Cluster strategy and ecosystem
- Governance and organisational model
- The cluster as a service organisation
- Projects and fundraising
- Internationalisation and innovation
- Communications, AI, and pitching
- DEMO DAY — presentation of results
Expected Results?
Throughout the programme, cluster managers will develop a comprehensive set of practical solutions for the growth of the cluster they represent. This includes a clear cluster profile—its specialization, role in the regional economy, and position within the ecosystem.
Participants will create a clear value proposition for businesses and partners, as well as design and test at least one cluster service.
During the programme, participants will prepare basic marketing materials for communication with cluster members, partners, donors, and international platforms.
Altogether, this will enhance the managerial capacity and organisational maturity of the cluster: advancing from an initiative to a fully managed cluster organisation, shortening the path from idea to the launch of the first service or project, and preparing the cluster for the next level of maturity in line with the European ESCA framework.
The development of the cluster movement is a key priority of the country’s economic policy, as clusters help boost business competitiveness, foster regional development, drive innovation, and create resilient economic ecosystems.
Switzerland’s support in implementing national cluster policy at the regional level underscores that the cluster approach is crucial for the recovery and long-term development of Ukraine’s regional economies, as well as for integrating Ukrainian clusters into the European and global economic space.
The UCORD project is implemented by NIRAS Sweden AB with the support of Switzerland.