Cluster Management Guide –

Guidelines for the Development and

Management of Cluster Initiatives

Karlsruhe Germany
Linz Austria
Lyon France
Tartu Estonia
Wermland Sweden
Timisoara Romania
Kaliningrad Russia
Nottingham UK

www.clusterforum.org
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 Table of contents
Foreword 2
1. Executive summary 5
2. Preamble 5
2.1 Challenges for European industries in the face of global competition 6
2.2 Benefits of cluster initiatives 7
2.3 Cluster policy 7
3. Cluster management guide in overview 9
3.1 Development of cluster initiatives 9
3.2 Management of cluster initiatives – five fields of action 10
4. Development of cluster initiatives 11
4.1 Pre-analysis for background information – feasibility study 13
4.2 Preparation of framework and internal organisation 15
4.2.1 Strategic positioning within the region 15
4.2.2 Definition of objectives, tasks and activities 16
4.2.3 Definition of responsible body / legal entity 16
4.2.4 Establishment of a project team 17
4.2.5 Establishment of a cluster advisory board 17
4.2.6 Information and communication concept 18
4.3 Financing 18
4.4 Launching of cluster initiatives 19
5. Management of cluster initiatives – five fields of action 20
5.1 Information and communication 20
5.2 Training 22
5.3 Co-operation 23
5.4 Marketing and PR 24
5.5 Internationalisation 25
6. Benchmarking indicators for cluster initiatives 26
7. References 28
8. Appendix 29
8.1 Checklist for development and management of cluster initiatives 29
8.2 Description of cluster initiatives 32
8.3 List of cluster initiatives of partner regions and other international cluster initiatives 41
8.4 Benchmarking of cluster initiatives 43

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1. Foreword

International networking – a formula for regional success

Cluster initiatives facilitate and accelerate innovations and

then bring them to market maturity, thus ensuring the long-
term, economic success of the companies involved. They
represent an efficient instrument for the concentration of re-
sources and funding, the achievement of critical dimensions
and the guaranteeing of the dissemination of knowledge and
expertise, which represent factors strengthening both loca-
tions and the economy on a sustained basis.

Therefore, it is especially important that clusters also estab-

lish international networking, and that they act as a bridge-
head in the promotion of regional and cross-border co-
operation.

Upper Austria began the successful implementation of a clus-

ter-oriented innovation policy in 1998, and has ever since co-
operated with other innovative regions. In particular, Upper
Austria shows excellent progress in the areas of cluster for-
mation and further development. As a result, our federal ter
initiative competence – a position which guarantees clear ad-
vantages for both business and industry.

This Cluster Management Guide is the first document to de-

fine the most important steps for the installation of a cluster
initiative. The Guide shows how a cluster can be successfully
established, financed and expanded. Best practice examples
from the CLOE regions clarify this process further. In this
way, Upper Austria has put its experience at the service of
other regions and has thus made an important contribution to
the success of the CLOE project.

Viktor Sigl
Upper Austrian Economics Secretary

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CLOE – linking regions, creating the future

By initiating in 2004 the project „CLOE: Clusters linked over

Europe“ (www.clusterforum.org), Karlsruhe created a network
with the European regions of Lyon/France, Linz/Upper Aus-
tria, Wermland/Sweden, Tartu/Estonia, Timisoara/Romania
and Kaliningrad/Russia to build the „European Network of
Excellence for Cluster Experience, Management, Matching
and Promotion“. The partners – mostly economic develop-
ment agencies and chambers of industry and commerce – in-
tend to establish closer links between their regions’ highly
developed sectors reinforcing their activities and services in
the field of economic development. In this way, the regions
can be marketed as locations for commerce and investment
within Europe and beyond, for example in the USA or Asia,
and they can promote themselves to particular industrial sec-
tors.

Karlsruhe as the so-called Lead Partner and initiator of the

project contributes to CLOE regional and supraregional net-
works such as the “Automotive Engineering Network Süd-
west” - AEN (www.aen-network.de), “Mobile Region
Karlsruhe” (www.mobileregionkarlsruhe.de), the “CyberFo-
rum” (www.cyberforum.de) and the nanotechnology network
“Nanomat” (www.nanomat.de) that give companies in
Karlsruhe and the Technology Region valuable impetus for
innovation and bring together partners from research, science
and industry.

This Cluster Management Guide reflects the experiences

made by the CLOE partners in the field of cluster creation
and development. It is the first guide on the creation and
management of clusters that takes into account the different
conditions prevailing in the participating countries. The CLOE
partners are prepared to share their experiences with other
regions thus taking up one of the main reasons for the crea-
tion of clusters: Small and medium-sized enterprises will have
to tighten their co-operation to maintain their competitiveness.
Only the co-operation between research agencies and com-
panies will ensure the full exploitation of the potential that a
region has to offer. For this purpose, the European partners
of the CLOE network will establish the international contacts
sought by the companies. This will not only lead to cross-

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 border collaboration but also help the clusters represented in
the network to make themselves and their competence more
noticeable world wide.

I am convinced that CLOE will have a lasting positive effect

on the partners’ economy and on their attraction as a busi-
ness location and I appreciate the success that the project
has enjoyed to date. In January 2006, for example, Notting-
ham joined the CLOE regions as an Associated Partner, a
possibility that is also open to other regions with successful
clusters. The co-operation between regions which, in their
turn, will create international networks, will be the only way to
ensure Europe’s competitive strength in the future. Therefore
this guide is also a small but important contribution to
Europe’s competitiveness.

Heinz Fenrich
Lord Mayor and President of TechnologieRegion Karlsruhe

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2. Executive summary

Globalisation has a significant impact on the development of industries and regions and their
competitiveness. This forces regional policy makers to reconsider their strategy and to de-
velop new activities. One of these new activities is the development of cluster building proc-
esses and their integration into the regions‘ innovation processes and strategies.

Many publications (e.g. Michael Porter) discuss in detail academic and well defined ap-
proaches of the development, establishment and management of cluster processes.

The present document takes a step forward and offers - based on the experience of success-
ful cluster initiatives - a practical handbook giving an overview of essential tasks which are to
be undertaken or at least considered within the scope of cluster building processes and their
management. This practical handbook is designed to help regional actors, cluster and project
managers and their supporting staff to develop and manage cluster activities in a proper and
successful way.

The cluster management guide was elaborated in co-operation with actors and cluster man-
agers from the regions of Karlsruhe, Lyon, Linz, Wermland, Tartu, Timisoara, Nottingham and
Kaliningrad.

CLOE "clusters linked over Europe" is a co-operation project between currently eight Euro-
pean regions set up with the aim of sharing experience, establishing close co-operations and
learning from each other in the area of cluster management.

Cluster Companies in clusters of CLOE partner organisations operating within the same in-
dustry but in different regions can benefit from improved co-operation. CLOE is an effective
information channel to find potential business and investment partners in eight fast developing
cluster regions in Europe.

3. Preamble

During the 1990s, many countries of the European Union started to establish cluster-
oriented measures to strengthen the industry’s ability to innovate and increase national
competitiveness. Within the scope of establishing innovation supporting instruments, build-
ing networks between industry, R&D-centres and academia plays a significant role and has
a huge impact on the success of such activities.

Cluster initiatives are an adequate and effective instrument to concentrate resources and
means in order to achieve a critical mass and to accelerate the transfer of knowledge and
know-how. The initiation and co-ordination of cluster initiatives and networks has become

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an important tool for regional governments to support and foster economic growth in high-
tech as well as low-tech sectors.

3.1 Challenges for European industries in the face of global competition

Nowadays, regions and regional companies face the challenges provided by the global mar-
ket. The competitiveness of a region is not determined by single companies, but more and
more by the innovative activities of entire industries and branches. For this reason, regional
competitiveness has become the central topic for the economic and technology policy of the
European Union and its member states. The main objectives of these policies are:

Fostering innovation

The ability to innovate is crucial for the success of regions in general and industry in par-
ticular. Today, the enhancement of economic globalisation and the increasing use of in-
formation technologies put massive pressure on the acceleration of innovation proc-
esses.

Fostering co-operation

Co-operation means fostering collaboration between industry, with a special focus on

small and medium-sized enterprises (SME's), research institutions and academia.
Supporting cooperation projects increases the rate of innovation processes and the
technology transfer from R&D-institutions and academia to industry.

Fostering internationalisation

Especially small and medium sized companies do not possess enough resources and
know-how to enter new markets. Therefore, internationalisation has become an es-
sential factor for companies and regions to succeed in the global competition.

An appropriate way to achieve these objectives is the development of cluster initiatives.

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3.2 Benefits of cluster initiatives

The prospect of potential benefits from cluster initiatives for companies and regions en-
courages governments and other public actors to launch cluster promotion policies. In gen-
eral, a well-developed concentration of related business promotes three important activi-
ties:

Increased productivity (through specialised inputs, access to information, synergies, and

access to public goods),

Faster innovation (through cooperative research and more intense competition),

New business formation (filling in niches and expanding the boundaries of the cluster
map).

Cluster initiatives help regions govern their economic development and recruiting efforts. It
also encourages communities to refocus their efforts on existing industries.

Strong domestic cluster initiatives also assist the regions in attracting foreign investments. As
leading platforms for their industries, clusters are able to attract national and international key
players. In fact, foreign-owned companies can enhance the leadership of the cluster and con-
tribute to its upgrading.

3.3 Cluster policy

Types and contents of cluster policy vary considerably from country to country. As a rule,
three types can be distinguished:

A first type deals with the strengthening of `triple helix´ relationships, particularly
between industry, research and government agencies, such as regional development
agencies or science and technology agencies.

A second type focuses rather on R&D co-operation between companies and between
companies and research organisation.

A third type concentrates on encouraging co-operation among companies, regardless

whether these collaborations take place with R&D-institutions or are carried out either
horizontally between competitors, or vertically along the value chain.

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As there are several definitions used in connection with cluster initiatives, it is necessary to
point out at this stage, that the present document is a practical guide for the development
and management of cluster initiatives and is based on the following definition and differen-
tiation:

Cluster Initiatives = organised regional sectorial networks among economic partners aim-
ing at improving innovation performance and international competi-
tiveness

= “tool for innovation policy”

Cluster = vertically and horizontally related economic partners of a certain in-

dustrial sector in a defined region with international competitiveness

Cluster initiatives have become a central feature for improving the growth and competitive-
ness of clusters. They are an increasingly popular approach to develop and strengthen
clusters.

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4. Cluster management guide in overview

This section describes – with the help of some pictures and graphics - the main aspects for
the development and management of cluster initiatives which are to be considered in order
to achieve an effective initiative. Following activities are generally applicable to all regions.
These steps are described more in detail in chapter 4 and 5.

4.1 Development of cluster initiatives

Detection of need for a

cluster building process

Desk research (feasibility study)

- Survey of current economy and cluster policy
- Analysis of economic strengths and
weaknesses
- Definition of relevant industries Multilateral talks Strategic positioning within the region
- Analysis of companies with actors
- Analysis of company needs
- Analysis of actors

Definition of objectives, tasks and activities

Company visits
Questionnaires for involved
actors (companies, R&D,
Academia)
Establishment of a project team Set up of a financial budget

Definition of indicators
Establishment of a cluster advisory board Establishment of an information and Definition of a financial
communication concept structure

Establishment of a
Definition of responsibility body
monitoring system

Launching the Cluster

Initiatives

Ongoing monitoring Day-to-day work in the five fields of action

Information and
Training and Qualification Co-operation Marketing and PR Internationalisation
Communication

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4.2 Management of cluster initiatives – five fields of action

The main tasks for the management of cluster initiatives can be divided into the follow-
ing five fields:

2. Training and Qualification 1. Information and Communication

Analysis of branch related educational

Detailed database
requirements
Frequent customer interviews
Promotion and mentoring of talented staff
Internet / homepage
Activities for qualification of company staff
Supplier and service catalogue
Regular special events
Newsletters
Workshops and seminars
Regular events, company tours, study trips
Study trips for employees
Monthly mailing
Inter-company learning
Press book
Co-operation with R&D and
educational bodies

3. Co-operations
4. Marketing and PR
Initiation and support of co-operation projects
Establishment of contacts between potential project partners Information and marketing materials
Co-operation with R&D, educational institutions and special Generation of a regional identity
service providers National and international PR and advertising activities
Set-up of special support programmes Measures to strengthen the branch image
Facilitate higher innovativeness Trade fairs, company visits, presentations for major
customers
Lobbying

5. Internationalisation

Access to international events, congresses, topics, customers and trends,

Support of international co-operation
Support of companies during internationalisation
Set-up of network activities between comparable/complementary
international clusters
Attract foreign visits in the cluster

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5. Development of cluster initiatives

A cluster initiative concept relies on some basic assumptions and ideologies which provide
important “policy”-statements. Some basic assumptions of a cluster concept are described
below.

Assumptions of a cluster initiative concept

A need for
Public
“engine” Participation Funding
intervention
companies

Intervention in form of Clusters established around Cluster initiative should be open Government funding in the
• initiation large innovation players to all companies beginning necessary
• consulting (activators) • low threshold  start impulse, motivation
• financial support for risk  SMEs controlled by • low member fees
cluster initiatives large companies • minimum commitment • ambition for self funding
(e.g. participation at meetings) • managed by an independent
organisation

Cluster initiatives are usually initiated from industry leaders, government and academia.
Usually, companies are the most influential participants in terms of setting up the initiative.
Government is important in terms of financing and securing at least some level of organisa-
tional support.

The following charts give an overview of some selected drives for success and failure in the
development and management of cluster initiatives.

Drivers for success and failure in cluster initiatives

• Concentration on existing strong

clusters set in good business
environment
• Focus on activating clusters rather
than creating them
Drivers for success
• Cluster initiatives as a part of a broader strategy –
improving business environment in cluster initiatives
in a particular region or country
• Cluster initiatives based on a shared
conceptual framework of competitiveness
• A sufficient operational budget

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 • Isolated cluster initiatives have
less impact
• Lack of a broad consensus about
drivers of economic performance
• Weak frameworks Drivers for failure
• Facilitators lacking strong networks in cluster initiatives
• Lack of offices
• Lack of sufficient budgets- problems with
sustainability
• Neglected brand building

Experience shows that a cluster initiative should comprise at least 30-50 members (com-
panies and other actors) to achieve a critical mass. This limits the selection of cluster sec-
tors.

The chart below represents the general phases of the development of cluster initiatives in a
stylised form.

Building social capital and creating trust

Developing strategic linkages

Defining strategy and vision

Undertaking actions

The set-up process of a cluster initiative varies substantially according to the purpose it is
to fulfil and the circumstances under which the involved companies are supposed to co-
operate. Nevertheless, the following tasks should be considered:

Pre-analysis for background information – feasibility study

Preparation of framework and internal organisation

Financing

Launching of the cluster initiative

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5.1 Pre-analysis for background information – feasibility study

A fundamental survey of the region’s economic and industrial structure - including a meta-
analysis of existing studies - is necessary to provide a clear picture of its strengths and weak-
nesses and to determine where supporting measures would be most beneficial.

This survey for the feasibility study can be carried out in two steps:

a) According to the above mentioned aspects a profound desk research should be per-
formed to get a first overview. All information channels such as Internet, books, avail-
able statistics and existing documents provide a broad mapping on relevant industries.
b) Due to the fact that some information can not be obtained from a desk research it is
necessary to undertake additional actions:
- Company visits
- Multilateral talks with actors
- Elaboration of questionnaires

Furthermore, the survey should comprise the following essential aspects:

Survey of the economy and cluster policies currently in use

It is important to get to know the regional framework and the policies and general regula-
tions currently in use. This is crucial to secure an efficient embedding of cluster initiative
and not to risk the developing of inconsistent policies.

Analysis of economic strengths and weaknesses

Geographical concentration has been central to the cluster initiative idea from the out-
set. The geographical proximity remaining at the core of the cluster concept is due to
both hard and soft aspects.
The "hard aspects" associated with benefits deriving from companies located in cer-
tain areas are i.e.:

- The availability of specific natural resources or other unique local assets may
contribute to co-location.
- Geographical proximity provides opportunities for lowering transaction costs
especially in accessing and transferring knowledge.
- Economies of scale and scope may be optimised most effectively by a limited
number of efficient-scale plants in a given geographical area.

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 - Specialisation of market supply with respect to labour, capital or technology
sources may be facilitated within a specific area.
- The means for accessing and sharing information on market and technology
change may become more effective within a given area.
- The interplay with local customers triggers learning processes and more
sophisticated demand.

In addition to that, “soft aspects” are also very significant. Attractive conditions for work-
ing as well as for living may play an important role. Chambers of commerce, libraries,
university campuses, sport arenas, logistic hubs, lunch restaurants, bars, cafés, festi-
vals, etc., all have special characteristics associated with the interaction between the
people using these facilities.

Definition of relevant industries

The simplest way to define relevant industries and to make a competence audit is to
gather detailed information on companies with regard to industry sector, location and
economic data as well as consider where certain industries are concentrated along with
their core competencies. This is to be achieved by means of questionnaires, up-to-date
statistics and surveys.

Analysis of companies, their strengths and value chains

The identification of strengths and weaknesses of companies is of great importance.

Sensitive information –such as the number of companies forming a sector, their number
of employees, the kind of research they carry out, etc. – and export quotas define the
characteristics of a region and contribute to the formation of a critical mass. Experience
shows that bigger groups should be favoured over the small ones.

Analysis of company needs

An analysis of company needs including a value chain analysis has to be conducted

with a focus on innovation. The analysis serves the purpose of forming the discussion
base when defining the key activity areas and the detailed measures which should be
supported within the cluster initiative.

The main tool for this analysis is usually a questionnaire sent to all companies identified
in the initial study plus face-to-face interviews with a significant number of companies.

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Analysis of relevant R&D actors, universities, other actors

In order to achieve inner dynamics, there is a need for engaging numerous actors to
reach a critical mass. Critical mass may serve as a “buffer” and makes a cluster initia-
tive resistant to exogenous shocks or other types of pressure, including “losses” of
companies, especially when they might be regarded as ”key companies”. Otherwise
the absence of critical mass can make a region vulnerable to the loss of specific re-
sources and skills that form essential building blocks.

The following actors should be considered and their contribution analysed:

- Regions - Technology transfer organisations

- Policy makers - Trade associations
- Financial institutions - R&D-centres
- Trade unions - Academia
- Industry associations

The involvement of the whole value chain is critical for the success of a cluster initia-
tive.

5.2 Preparation of framework and internal organisation

5.2.1 Strategic positioning within the region

The cluster initiative needs an ideological framework to exist and act within. The definition
and correlation with other policies and especially the implementation in the regional strat-
egy are to be clearly defined. For transparency reasons this should be communicated to all
relevant actors within the region.

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5.2.2 Definition of objectives, tasks and activities

In a first step every initiative is to define short-term, mid-term and long-term objectives.
Within the second step the tasks and activities are to be defined necessary to reach these
targets. Moreover, objectives have to be quantified so that a suitable monitoring can be op-
erated. An appropriate possibility to visualise the strategic objectives is the “pyramid of ob-
jectives”. Thereby the objectives are hierarchically arranged so that several sub-objectives
lead to a higher objective.

Objectives, tasks and activities

Strengthening regional
competitiveness

Foster
Foster international
Foster innovation co-operation Foster qualification
orientation

Improving of Contract with Organisation of

Attract new Create a brand Organisation of Support of
marketing and R&D seminars /
firms for region events co-operation
PR and academia workshops

5.2.3 Definition of responsible body / legal entity

An essential point is the choice of the responsible body for cluster initiatives. This decision
should be made by all responsible actors.

Case study

In Upper Austria there are currently three legal entities managing clusters and networks. The Clusterland
Oberösterreich GmbH, a limited liability company consolidates six out of the eight cluster initiatives. Offering
various synergy potentials it has proven as a successful organisation form. The other entities are the OOe
Energiesparverband (ESV) and the Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce.

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5.2.4 Establishment of a project team

The development and management of cluster initiatives require establishing a project team for
the day-to-day activities. The size of a project team depends on the size of the cluster initia-
tive but should comprise at least 3-5 people. The competences of the team must be consid-
ered carefully.

The staff members, especially cluster managers, should have industry-specific knowledge
on the one hand and manager and process-oriented qualifications on the other hand. The
staff members should provide the following skills:

Leadership Integrity

Resources Enabling capabilities

Analytical skills Interpersonal skills

Management skills Knowledge and vision

5.2.5 Establishment of a cluster advisory board

A cluster advisory board (10-12 members)

- Is an expert committee which consults the cluster initiative in matters of strategic

positioning, controlling and monitoring of network activities.

- Supports the project team in the orientation of the cluster initiative to current and
future markets and technology requirements of the cluster and region.

- Evaluates already completed activities in terms of acceptance as well as

benefits for the partner companies and forms new activities.

The cluster advisory board receives the necessary documentation from the project team
and should meet preferably four times a year.

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The crucial competences of the different stages of a cluster initiative may be described as
follows:

- leadership
- enabling capabilities
Building up social capital - interpersonal skills
- integrity

Developing strategic linkages, - management and analytic skills

defining strategy and vision - industry specific knowledge

- interpersonal skills
Undertaking actions - management and analytical skills
- resources

5.2.6 Information and communication concept

A smooth information infrastructure is necessary to keep the cluster working effectively.

The information system often comprises a web page presenting general information about
the cluster, a company catalogue giving short descriptions of the participating companies, a
co-operation „stock exchange“ where companies can announce their proposals for co-
operation projects and an agenda for meetings and short reports about current activities.

5.3 Financing

The responsible body should have sufficient budget to conduct significant projects without
seeking separate funding. Well-funded cluster initiatives are more likely to pursue certain
objectives, including spin-off promotion, technical training and infrastructure projects. They
are better in promoting cluster growth and somewhat better in improving competitiveness.

Generally, there are three different types of financing:

Open-ended public funding

Some groups share the opinion that permanent subsidisation can lead to inefficiency in
cluster management and cluster initiatives. Interestingly, representatives of this argu-
ment are not only to be found in the corporate sector but in the institutional sector as
well.

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Temporary public funding

Other groups are of the opinion that the cluster initiatives should be limited in time in or-
der to prevent the possibility of permanent subsidisation and should also allow room for
industry driven co-operation activities.

Public/private funding

A cluster initiative can be financed with public money in combination with services
against payment. In the course of time, the public funding will decrease and the contri-
bution of the companies will rise.

Financing changes over time, with government seed money playing a lead role in the first
phase. In later stages government money seems to decrease as a general rule, whereas
industry seed money and memberships fees become more and more important. Often a
cluster initiative is planned and (co-) funded by the regional authorities for a period of 18
months with the objective of extending the funding of further 18 months. After these three
years, the cluster should be self sustainable and no more government funding should be
needed.

Case study

The Upper Austrian Future Fund finances a large part of the local cluster initiatives, but the share of private
financing is increasing constantly by individual contribution of partner companies. This contribution comprises
a promotion fee of EUR 258 for micro companies, EUR 516 for SMEs and EUR 1.032 for big companies, par-
ticipation fee for events and other service charges. In the medium run until 2010, all Cluster initiatives aim at a
self-financing share of 75%.

5.4 Launching of cluster initiatives

How to launch a cluster should be decided according to the cluster-specific situation. It is

generally sensible that the cluster activities are started soon after the launch event. This
event should be organised very carefully to avoid that participating companies loose their
interest in the initiative.

In order to limit the risk of a launch failure, a self-confident and innovation-friendly group
should be formed in the starting phase with the aim of creating stability within the cluster.
This core group will also help the companies define their attitude towards the cluster. In-
volving in the cluster a person with a broad network would represent a further advantage.
Approximately six to nine months after launching the cluster initiative, first concrete und
visible projects should be identified to demonstrate the resulting benefits .

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6. Management of cluster initiatives – five fields of action

The cluster team is primarily responsible for the efficiency of the cluster initiative. The clus-
ter management and the team members support the initiative in their daily work. As this is a
cumulative process, the overall performance of the cluster initiative is considerably influ-
enced by the cluster management and the cluster team.

The main tasks for the management of cluster initiative can be divided into five fields of ac-
tions.

6.1 Information and communication

As already described in chapter 4.2.6 the establishment of an information and communica-

tion system is essential for the success of cluster initiatives. All members as well as non
participating companies should be informed about the cluster initiative itself, its members,
the current activities and targets achieved. For this purpose, the following communication
channels should be used:

Development of a communication platform and Jour-Fixe

For exchanging information, experience and knowledge, a communication platform

should be established. The platform should be animated by means of regular meetings
and an internal forum dedicated to the partners.

Hold a Jour-Fixe

Participants should be operative employees of the cluster initiative and representatives

of academia and industry. In the beginning, the meetings should take place every 3-4
weeks which will be extended to 3-4 months once the cluster initiative runs successfully.

Regular company visits

Cluster managers should organise 5-10 visits per month which should be documented
by a visit report. The reports should give an overview of the activities and needs of a
company. This information may be an important basis for the generation of co-operation
projects.

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Regular events

For the success of a cluster initiative it is essential to organise regular events. These
events aim at promoting cluster growth and establishing an exchange with other clus-
ters:

- Workshops
- Expert round tables
- Specialist events
- Fairs
- Cluster days

Newsletter and monthly branch and network news updates

All participants should be kept informed about relevant news regarding the cluster initia-
tive and branches. This could be achieved by means of a monthly newsletter in an in-
formal email sent out by the project team.
Newsletters are usually elaborated quarterly and available in printed and electronic for-
mat.

Cluster data base / supplier catalogue / industry information

The establishment of a cluster data base is very important to efficiently administrate the
partner and cluster initiative information. The database should contain at least general
information on the partners (e.g. address, turnover, number of employees) and informa-
tion of service type.

Homepage

The aim of the homepage is to inform about content, members and activities within the
cluster initiative. The homepage should comprise at least an informative part (general
information about the cluster initiative) and a tool for searching partners.

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6.2 Training

Human resources represent an essential key factor for the success of companies. There-
fore, a successful cluster initiative considers programmes for advanced vocational training
and should initiate and support a range of educational measures to improve competency
among the employees of the member firms. Apart from catalysing inter-firm networks and
university-industry linkages, cluster processes may strengthen the incentives for SMEs to
upgrade their internal competencies.

The educational measures are realised in the form of:

- Advanced vocational training sessions

- Workshops and seminars
- Study trips for employees
- Inter company learning

Case study

The triggering factor in the development of Tartu Software Cluster Initiative was the fact that shortage of
qualified personnel was becoming the biggest obstacle in the growth and development of the cluster. Each of
the interviewed companies indicated the lack of appropriate training and education of the software developers
as challenge number one. They all agreed that creating appropriate training programmes would on the long
run be much more efficient than trying to buy over personnel from each other. Therefore a joint training pro-
gramme tailored for software developers was drawn up by the University of Tartu, Tartu Vocational Training
Centre, Tartu City and Tartu Science Park containing the short, medium and long term measures to provide
the necessary education and thus allow the further growth of the cluster.

22 Project
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by the European Union
6.3 Co-operation

Since competitiveness of regions is not determined by single companies, but more and
more by the innovation ability of entire industries and branches, co-operations are essential
to improve this ability. With the help of co-operation projects, synergy potentials can be ex-
ploited and thereby not only single companies are strengthened but also the entire eco-
nomic structure in a crucial and sustainable way.

Target group companies often have high interest in co-operation projects with other firms or
with R&D institutions. An important area of activity for the cluster initiative is therefore the ini-
tiation, development and support of co-operation projects. These kinds of projects can deal
with the following areas:

- R&D - Qualification
- Production - Organisation
- Marketing - Information Technology
- Logistics - Internationalisation

Initiation and support of co-operation projects

The cluster initiative should initiate, foster and support co-operation among companies,
universities as well as R&D-institutions.

Co-operation with R&D and educational institutions and special service provid-
ers

To secure high innovative projects, it is important to involve R&D and educational institu-
tions and special service providers.

Set-up of special supporting schemes for co-operation projects

It is essential to set up an appropriate supporting framework to attract companies for co-

operation. The guidelines for supporting programmes for the allocation of grants should be
elaborated in a customer-friendly way.

Project
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by the European Union

Co-operation support

The establishment of an internal contact agency, partner agency for co-operation pro-
jects and the development of a monitoring system are very useful.

Case study

During the past seven years the Upper Austrian clusters initiated and realised 306 products, processes and
market innovations through cluster projects with 1.177 involved companies. This contributes to a sustainable
strengthening of the regional economic competitiveness. The co-operation projects were supported with
14.31 million Euro initiating a project volume of 60.70 million Euro.

6.4 Marketing and PR

Marketing and PR strengthen the involvement of the existing members and attract new
companies or research organisations to join the cluster. These activities should therefore
be carried out on a regular basis. They can include national and international lobbying for
the specific sector and comprise the following tasks:

- Generation of a regional identity

- Creation of information and marketing materials, presentations and information
brochures
- National and international PR by means of commercials, advertisements/articles
in trade journals
- Measures to strengthen the branch image
- Trade fairs, company visits, presentations for major customers
- Lobbying

24 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
6.5 Internationalisation

The elimination of trade barriers and the strengthening of transport and communication sys-
tems, along with the harmonisation of market regulations offer greatly improved conditions
of resource flows and enhanced specialisation of value chains across national borders. For
industry as well as for regions it is nowadays essential to open new markets and to find and
attract new partners for co-operation. Therefore, a cluster initiative should support its mem-
bers during internationalisation activities. The cluster initiative should also be open for fur-
ther international expansion. Following activities have to be considered:

Access to international events, topics and trends

A cluster initiative should be open to new trends and topics. Participation in international
events is essential.

Participation in international projects

It is important that partners of the cluster initiative participate in international projects in or-
der to increase their competitiveness by means of these international activities.

Set-up of network activities between different clusters

To sustain the competitiveness and highly innovative character of a cluster initiative, it is

important to co-operate with other cluster initiatives in other regions. This can be done ei-
ther through study trips or through co-operations within EU-projects.

Case study

A good example how cluster initiatives work together and provide additional advantages for their cluster-
partner-companies are the industry specific workshops in the CLOE-project. Cluster-initiatives organise
events together focussing on a specific topic within the cluster. Experts are invited to talk about recent re-
search or best practice in this area. These interesting novelties and experiences attract the cluster-partner-
companies from different regions to join the event, get in contact with the scientist, meet representatives of
other companies or just get information how the market will develop in the future.

Project
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by the European Union
7. Benchmarking indicators for cluster initiatives

In order to carry out the evaluation of a cluster initiative, measurable indicators should be
determined in advance. These indicators secure the evaluation quality and can be used as
benchmarks for the comparison with other cluster initiatives.

The following indicators should be determined for every cluster initiative:

Key figures
Number of partner companies in
the cluster initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner

companies of cluster initiative

Cumulative number of employees

of partner companies in the cluster
initiative

Qualification
Number of organised events
within cluster initiative

Number of participants in these

events

Co-operation projects

Number of co-operation projects in

the cluster initiative

Number of companies participat-

ing in these co-operation projects
in the cluster initiative

Leverage of cluster initiative (grant

compared to investment costs)

26 Project
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by the European Union
Further indicators can be:

- Rate of SMEs in cluster initiative

- Number of company visits within cluster initiative
- Number of involved actors/institution in cluster initiative
- Rate of public funding of cooperation projects in cluster initiative
- Rate of public funding in cluster initiative
- Number of customer satisfaction analysis carried out per year within cluster
initiative

Based on the records, the quality indicators should be monitored regularly. At least once a
year a whole cluster initiative should be evaluated. This is important particularly with regard
to the achievement of the objectives and the evaluation of the initiative’s success.

The monitoring should be carried out with a questionnaire to be filled out by the partner
company and sent back to the cluster manager office. The monitoring process should be
documented and regularly forwarded to the partners of the cluster initiative.

Project
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8. References

Andersson T., Schwaag Serger S., Sörvik J., Wise Hansson E., (2004): The Cluster Policy
White Book. IKDE, Malmö 2004

Clusterland Oberösterreich (2006): Clusterland Upper Austria – Innovation through Coopera-

tion. URL: http://www.clusterland.at/, download 17.01.2006

European Commission (2002): Regional Clusters in Europe - Observatory of European

SMEs, No. 3, Belgium 2002

European Commission (2003): Final Report of the Expert Group on Enterprise Clusters and
Networks, Brussels 2002

European Commission (2003): Trend Chart on Innovation. URL: http://www.innovating-

regions.org/network/regionalstrat/chart.cfm, download 05.10.2005

Ketels C., (2003): The Development of the cluster concept – present experiences and further
developments, URL:
http://www.isc.hbs.edu/pdf/Frontiers_of_Cluster_Research_2003.11.23.pdf, download
20.10.2005

OECD (2001): Innovative Clusters – Drivers of National Innovation Systems. OECD Publicati-
ons, OECD 2001

Ohler F., (2001): Evaluierung der oberösterreichischen Clusterinitiativen. Technopolis For-

schungs- und Beratungsgesellschaft mbH, Wien 2001

Schneider F., Holzberger M., (2003): Volkswirtschaftliche Analyse ausgewählter Maßnahmen

der oberösterreichischen Standort- und Technologiepolitik, Linz 2003

Sölvell Ö, Lindqvist G., Ketels C., (2003): The Cluster Initiative Greenbook. Bromma tryck AB,
Stockholm 2003

28 Project
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by the European Union
 9. Appendix

9.1 Checklist for development and management of cluster initiatives

Following checklist summaries all nevessary steps that have to be undertaken to develop and
manage successful cluster initiatives.

Development of cluster initiatives

Fullfilled

Execution of a desk research / feasibility study

Survey of the economy and cluster policies currently in use

Analysis of economic strengths and weaknesses
Definition of relevant industries
Analysis of companies, their strengths and value chains
Analysis of the company needs
Analysis of relevant R&D actors, universities, other actors

Multilateral talks with actors

Strategic positioning within the region

Definition of objectives, tasks and activities

Definition of responsible body / legal entity

Establishing of a project team

Information and communication concept

Establishment of a cluster advisory board

Financing

Launching of the cluster initiative

Project
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 Management of cluster initiative

Status
Information and communication

Development of a communication platform and Jour Fixe

Regular company visits
Regular events (workshops, expert round tables, specialist events, fairs cluster days)
Newsletter and monthly branch and network news update
Cluster data base / supplier catalogue / industry information
Homepage

Staff training (employees of cluster companies and project team)

Advanced vocational training sessions

Workshops and seminars
Study trips for employees
Inter company learning

Co-operation

Initiation and support of co-operation projects

Co-operation with R&D and educational institutions and special service providers
Set-up of special supporting schemes for co-operation projects
Co-operation support

30 Project
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Status
Marketing and PR

Generation of a regional identity

Creation of information and marketing materials, presentations and information bro-
chures
National and international PR through commercials, advertisements/articles in trade
journals
Measures to strengthen the branch image
Trade fairs, company visits, presentations at major costumers
Lobbying

Internationalisation

Access to international events, topics and trends

Participation in international projects

Set-up of network activities between different clusters

Project
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by the European Union
9.2 Description of cluster initiatives

Cluster initiatives in Upper Austria

Cluster policy in Upper Austria

Since 1998 the strategy paper “Strategisches Programm OÖ 2000+” based on a consequent
cluster-oriented economy and technology policy is being implemented with the aim of
strengthening regional competitiveness. The status quo of today’s cluster policy in Upper Aus-
tria is the result of the co-occurrence of various factors, and in particular:

Foundation of TMG (Technology and Marketing company), its shareholder structure

and the specific financing structure

An important element of the Upper Austrian technology and location policy was the in-
stitutional establishment of TMG. TMG is a service-oriented non-profit organisation
which is responsible for the success of the clusters. The wide shareholder structure of
TMG comprises all important public institutions, representation of interests and infra-
structure bodies.

Financing

The Upper Austrian Future Fund finances a large part of the cluster initiatives, though the
share of private financing is constantly increasing due to individual contributions of partner
companies. This contribution comprises a promotion fee of EUR 258 for micro companies,
EUR 516 for SMEs and EUR 1.032 for big companies, participation fee for events and other
service charges. In the medium run all cluster initiatives aim at a self-financing share of 75%,
which can be considered as the business benefit. The remaining 25% correspond to the eco-
nomic effects which indirectly affects also non participating companies.

Development and Management structure

The successful cluster initiatives in Upper Austria started in 1998 with the Automobile Cluster
within the framework of the Strategy Programme "Upper Austria 2000+". TMG commissioned
a consulting company to set up an Automobile Cluster in order to avoid risks and shorten the
establishment period. As the project was started, 25 prominent companies were invited and a
programme for the first year was elaborated for them; within the following 7 months all other
relevant companies joined the cluster.
The immediate break-through with the target group doubtlessly proved the success of the ini-
tiative and contributed to the self-confidence of the Upper Austrian cluster policy.

32 Project
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Meanwhile Upper Austria provides a strong network of cluster initiatives for its companies, especially
SMEs.

Upper Austrian Cluster Initiatives in figures

Hence, in the past seven years, 306 products, processes and market innovations were initi-
ated and realised through cluster projects with 1.177 involved companies. This corresponds
to a share of 74% of all cluster partners and shows that a complete new co-operation and in-
novation culture in Upper Austria has been developed. This contributes to a sustainable
strengthening of the competitiveness of the regional economy. The co-operation projects
were supported with 14.31 million Euro which initiated a project volume of 60.70 million Euro.
This corresponds to a factor of 1:4. According to the data of the involved companies, further
investments (machines, materials, human resources, etc.) were activated, which elevate the
factor to 1:6. The whole volume of investment (innovation) induced in the past five years was
85.86 million Euros.

In order to continue the pursuit of this successful approach, the Upper Austrian government
commissioned the preparation of the "Innovative Upper Austria 2010" strategic programme,
intended to be a guideline for l a technology policy for 2005 to 2010. This is based on the
resolutions of the Upper Austrian government, and takes into account not only the evaluation
results but also the changes in the Structural Funds forthcoming in the EU 2007–2013 finan-
cial perspective.

The new programme "Innovative Upper Austria 2010" was prepared with the extensive assis-
tance of 250 experts from business, research and related bodies, and in close co-operation

Project
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by the European Union
with the Upper Austrian Research and Technology Council. Their conclusions take the form of
five topic areas, 18 strategies and 43 measures.
In line with national and European innovation strategies, the content of the programme is
comprised of the five topic areas of R&D, professional qualifications, networks, the economic
and technology location Upper Austria and EU networking. The future goal of the programme,
namely an increase in competitiveness, is obvious and like its forerunner, the current "Innova-
tive Upper Austria 2010" demonstrates not only a strict orientation toward feasibility, but also
includes vision, mission statements and implementation strategies.

An objective of the Strategic Programme "Upper Austria 2010" is the continuation of the eight
cluster initiatives and the four thematic networks, with the general topic to develop the econ-
omy in Upper Austria. Theses clusters and networks are joined together in the Upper Austrian
Clusterland GmbH.

www.clusterland.at
www.tmg.at
www.ooe2010.at

34 Project
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by the European Union
Cluster initiatives in Karlsruhe

The Automotive Engineering Network South-West (AEN, since 2004, 64 members from
Germany and France) unites enterprises from the south-west of Germany operating as sup-
pliers, outfitter or system partners of the automotive industry. As the focus of the cluster is
engineering, the cluster concentrates on the service side of the automotive branch. Engineer-
ing, one of the most important competencies in the automotive production, will always be a
part in the value chain - even if production sites might be transferred to other countries.

The cluster initiative was started in December 2004 and is run by the Economic Development
Department without any extra funding from the State. Although Karlsruhe is not famous for
automotive production, some of the Daimler-Chrysler production carried out in Alsace also
affects this area. For this reason many different delivery industries of this sector are located
here. The cluster currently counts 64 members - among which are research centres, SMEs
and logistic centres. As the Karlsruhe region borders on France, some of the members are
located abroad. Therefore, this initiative can be regarded as one of the rare bi-national re-
gional clusters.

www.ae-network.de

Cyberforum (since 1997, 640 members, private initiative) is the oldest and biggest cluster
in Karlsruhe. Founded in 1997, run by a private initiative and supported by the Economic De-
velopment Karlsruhe, it counts nowadays 640 members from over 500 companies in the
TIMES-branches (telecommunication, information technologies, media, entertainment and
security). The cluster provides a broad service choice, i.e. monthly meetings with lectures and
lessons about selected topics are followed by an informal come-together. This so-called
“marketplace” enables the cluster members to meet new contacts,find new business partners
and is very well established in the Region. Special services are also offered to start-ups and
to the field of job-training and apprenticeship. Currently, Cyberforum co-ordinates the training
of more than 120 persons.

www.cyberforum.de

MobileRegionKarlsruhe (since 2005, 40 members, industry driven network, mobile so-

lutions) is a marketplace for the various mobile solutions from the Karlsruhe region. It pro-
motes the transfer to a broader public of new developments made by innovative enterprises.
The mobile region Karlsruhe is known in Germany as a prominent cluster for mobile solutions.
The initiative is completely industry-driven and shows that the over 40 regional companies
which are organised in this special IT-cluster have understood the advantages of co-operation
within a region.

Project
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35
by the European Union
The latest development in Karlsruhe is the linking of the two clusters Cyberforum and Mobil-
eRegion. The MobileRegion will become a part of the Cyberforum, representing a special in-
terest group within the cluster. This new structure creates benefits such as the elimination of
redundancies and an increased concentration on the daily work.

www.mobileskarlsruhe.de

The NanoMat network (German wide nanotechnology network from research and in-
dustry) comprises three research centres of the Helmholtz Association of German Research
Centres, ten universities with natural and engineering science departments, one Max Planck
Institute, one Institute of the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Science Association, three Fraunhofer
Institutes, one Institute of the Polish Academy of Science, the DECHEMA and four major
companies all over Germany. A close co-operation in various research programmes within the
NanoMat network enables the partners to cross-link their competences so that the projects
can be carried out in a continuous and interdisciplinary way from the preliminary research
stage to the transformation into economically viable products. The NanoMat network has a
strong research background and was originally founded with support of the Federal Govern-
ment. The Economic Development Department, the Steinbeis-Europazentrum and NanoMat
initiated the regular meeting of SME and research institutes at a regional level in the so-called
NanoForum Karlsruhe. On the one hand, this forum aims at informing the participants about
the latest developments in the field of research and enabling the companies to find out about
future applications for their products or production lines. On the other hand, the scientists are
confronted with practical problems occurring in the companies.

www.nanomat.de

36 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Cluster initiatives in Tartu Region

Tartu Software Cluster

Background

The Tartu Software Cluster Initiative was developed as a result of the Tartu Regional Inno-
vation Strategy project which identified wood, metal, information technology and biotech-
nology to be the key development areas of Tartu region. Aim of this cluster initiative is to
strengthen the competitiveness of Tartu Software companies through joint cooperation ac-
tivities also involving universities, vocational education institutions, local governments and
business support structures such as Tartu Science Park.

Cluster Dynamics

First Software development companies were set up in Tartu in mid 90s, mostly by persons
who had been involved in research activities of the University of Tartu. The initial growth
was quite slow and by the year 2000 the estimated number of people working in software
development was only 150. However, since the beginning of the new Millennium the situa-
tion at the Tartu Software cluster changed. Many new companies were created and the ex-
isting ones started growing faster. Currently, the Tartu Software Cluster includes the big-
gest software developing companies in Estonia such as Playtech and Webmedia both em-
ploying already about 200 persons. Today, 30 Software developing companies are in the
cluster and the total number of persons directly employed by the software companies is ex-
pected to exceed 1000 during 2006. The cluster growth has also reflected in the rapid turn-
over and profits increase. The main markets of the cluster are situated outside of Estonia
and include both strong European markets and global markets as the booming United
States.

Cluster Initiative Focus

The Tartu Software Cluster Initiative is currently focusing on 2 main themes. Firstly, devel-
oping the human capital in all levels starting with high schools and vocational education es-
tablishments up to universities and graduate studies as the lack of qualified personnel is
the main hindrance for the further growth of the cluster. Secondly, as companies are grow-
ing fast, there is already shortage of suitable premises in which companies can expand.
Therefore, a Public Private Partnership agreement with the aim of developing a real estate
project under the name of “Tartu Software Tower” is currently being discussed intensively
within this cluster initiative.

Project
part-financed
37
by the European Union
Cluster initiatives in Nottingham

eminate is a ground-breaking initiative aimed at providing open access for industry to a suite of
state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation equipment in the heart of the UK. Located at
BioCity, Nottingham’s bioscience incubation centre, eminate will focus on the growth, synthesis
and evaluation of nanostructured materials, and is set to revolutionise and revitalise areas of
traditional industrial strength across many sectors.
The expertise and techniques available through eminate will bring significant benefits to the lo-
cal engineering (including Aerospace, Automotive and Energy) and healthcare (including
pharmaceuticals, food, technical textiles and medical devices) sectors. A key objective will be
to open up new business opportunities through the active facilitation of cross-disciplinary tech-
nology transfer between these sectors.
Technologies:
Developing resource and expertise base

Pilot Technologies
Fabrication
Characterisation
Time

GMP
Sterile MF

Medium term opportunities:

Technical Textiles
Nanocomposites
Nano-ceramics
Nano BioMaterials

Longer-term opportunities:
Polymer/Ceramic Nanotubes,
Self-assembled materials etc.

Pilot technologies: addressing the immediate processing and materials needs of industry.
- Nanoparticulate synthesis/processing: for the controlled production, encapsulation and
functionalisation of micro- and nano-scale particles for applications including drug de-
livery, food formulation, catalysis, etc.

- Coatings Facility: for the exploitation of the benefits of nanostructured coatings in im-
proving resistance properties, bio-compatibility and anti-microbial activity.

38 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
 - Twin Screw Extrusion Facility: advanced extrusion and encapsulation techniques for
the production of nanocomposites (e.g. polymer/ceramic) to enhance structural proper-
ties.

- Supercritical Fluid Plant: for the application of advanced solvent and precipitation
techniques to produce metal, ceramic and polymer nanoparticles and nanostructured
materials with enhanced properties.

Medium/Long-term Technologies
The expertise of eminate and its partner institutions will also be employed to nurture a pipeline
of novel nanomaterials and material architectures of medium and long-term benefit to industry.
Specialist pilot and manufacturing facilities will be developed in partnership with industry,
based on the technologies showing most promising for commercial application. Examples in-
clude:
- Polymer/Ceramic/Nanotube Nanocomposites
- Self-Assembled Materials
- Magnetic Nanoparticles and Biomedical Imaging Contrast Agents
- Technical Textiles
- Lithographic Templating Technologies (e.g. sensors applications)
- Biodegradable Scaffold Materials
- Nanoceramic Processing (Powder Reaction Injection Moulding and Extrusion)

Characterisation
Co-located with the production facilities will be a suite of dedicated characterisation equipment
required for research, testing and prototyping. More specialised evaluation facilities will be
available via the consortium partners or through collaboration with others centres within a
worldwide network.

Services

Focussed around the needs of industry for short-term, applications-oriented development and
assessment of nanotechnology approaches to improving products and processes:
- Collaborative Research
- Feasibility studies
- Contract analysis
- Rental of equipment, space and facilities
- Training/Dissemination
- Applications Engineering Consultancy

www.eminate.co.uk

Project
part-financed
39
by the European Union
Cluster initiatives in Wermland

The Paper Province is an economic association that coordinates and increases co-operation
between participants in the pulp and paper technology business in Wermland, northern Dal-
sland and Närke in central Sweden. The main focus is on packaging technology. The prox-
imity to raw materials, modern infrastructure and the central position in northern Europe make
of this region a global leader in this sector of industry.
The cluster comprises around 250 companies with approx. 12.500 employees, which makes it
one of the largest clusters in the pulp and paper technology.
The formation of The Paper Province network in 1999 was a way to gather local businesses
active in the pulp and paper industry, along with customers, machinery suppliers, consultants
and other service providers. The aim was to help promote the region and support its devel-
opment through the reliable provision of competencies.
One of the main reasons for the region's pulp, paper and packaging industry to be so strong is
the investment of about 1 Bln SEK every year for the past ten years, in both staff and tech-
nology, in order to remain competitive. The industry also makes a major commitment to re-
search and development and to quality and service.
The Paper Province includes many big names and well-known international companies such
as Tetra Pak, Stora Enso, Billerud, Metso Paper, Kvaerner Pulping, Jaakko Pöyry, etc. There
are also smaller businesses with extremely professional staff offering services and products
to the major players, supplying everything from chemicals, machinery and mechanical com-
ponents to high-tech systems.
The closeness to the Karlstad University as well as its influence provide many advantages for
the region. The Paper Province uses its strong ties to the university to identify and encourage
new research and development projects.
A large part of The Paper Province's activities is focused on networking, co-ordinating and
developing co-operation between the participants in the pulp and paper technology cluster in
Wermland, northern Dalsland and Närke.
Activities also include marketing, competence procurement, project development and regional
growth in partnerships with schools, the university and regional, national and international au-
thorities.

www.paperprovince.com

40 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
9.3 List of cluster initiatives of partner regions and other international cluster initia-
tives

Automotive Clusters:

www.ae-network.de Energy Clusters:

www.automobil-cluster.at www.oec.at

www.mechatronik-cluster.at www.eco-energies.net

www.cdt.at
Food Cluster:
www.automotive-cluster.fr
www.lebensmittel-cluster.at
www.lyon.cci.fr

www.acstyria.at
Health Cluster:

Nanotechnology Clusters: www.gesundheits-cluster.at

www.nanomat.de
ICT Clusters:
www.minatec.com
www.compare.se
www.eminate.co.uk
www.mobileregionkarlsruhe.de

Plastics Cluster: www.cyberforum.de

www.ka-it-si.de
www.kunststoff-cluster.at
www.lyongame.com

Bio Cluster:
Packaging Industry Clusters:
www.bio-cluster.com
www.paperprovince.com

Textile Cluster: www.packagingarena.se

www.newtex-cluster.com
Mechatronics Clusters:

Wood Cluster: www.mechatronik-cluster.at

www.m-h-c.at www.iucwermland.se

Project
part-financed
41
by the European Union
Thematic Networks:

www.rio-ooe.at

www.vnl.at

www.netzwerk-hr.at

www.netzwerk-design.at

www.mobileskarlsruhe.de

Others:

www.uvan.net

42 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
9.4 Benchmarking of cluster initiatives

Name of cluster initiative: Automotive Cluster

Type of financing: public and private funding

Date of foundation: 1998

Short description: established through the TMG, Automobil Cluster is a service-

oriented non-profit organisation with a wide shareholder structure
that comprises all important public institutions. Successful focusing
of the cluster initiative at the current needs of the regional industry
was secured through the support of a cluster advisory board, an
expert committee with members of regional industry.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: November 2005

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster ini-

265 4
tiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of
18,92 Mrd. € 4
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
95.520 4
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster ini-
144 4
tiative

Number of participants in these events 7.524 4

Number of co-operation projects in the cluster

54 4
initiative

Project
part-financed
43
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of companies participating in these co-

220 4
operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant compared to
1:6 4
investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 68% 4

Number of company visits per year within clus-

200 4
ter initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
14 4
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation projects
~25% 4
in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative ~63% 4

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

~20 4
within cluster initiative

44 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Health Cluster

Type of financing: public and private Funding

Date of foundation: 2001

Short description: established through the TMG, a service-oriented non-profit organi-

sation with a wide shareholder structure that comprises all impor-
tant public institutions. Successful focusing of the cluster initiative
at the current needs of the regional industry was secured through
the support of a cluster advisory board, an expert committee with
members of regional industry.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: November 2005

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster ini-

150 4
tiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

3,32 Mrd. € 4
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
26.590 4
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster ini-
59 4
tiative

Number of participants in these events 1.911 4

Number of co-operation projects in the cluster

15 4
initiative
Number of companies participating in these co-
50 4
operation projects in the cluster initiative

Project
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by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Leverage of cluster initiative (grant compared

1:6 4
to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 84% 4

Number of company visits per year within

236 1
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
10 1
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
~25% 4
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative 65% 1

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

46 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Plastics Cluster

Type of financing: public and private Funding

Date of foundation: 01.04.1999

Short description: established through the TMG, a service-oriented non-profit organi-

sation with a wide shareholder structure that comprises all impor-
tant public institutions. Successful focusing of the cluster initiative
at the current needs of the regional industry was secured through
the support of a cluster advisory board, an expert committee with
members of regional industry.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: February 2006

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

373 4
initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

10,79 Mrd. € 4
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
52.599 4
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
102 4
initiative

Number of participants in these events 5.893 4

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

68 4
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
304 4
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative

Project
part-financed
47
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-

1:6 4
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 85% 4

Number of company visits per year within

130 4
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
65 4
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
~25% 4
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative 40% 4

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

48 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Mechatronics Cluster

Type of financing: public and private Funding

Date of foundation: January 2003

Short description: established through the TMG, a service-oriented non-profit organi-

sation with a wide shareholder structure that comprises all impor-
tant public institutions. Successful focusing of the cluster initiative
at the current needs of the regional industry was secured through
the support of a cluster advisory board, an expert committee with
members of regional industry.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: November 2005

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

196 4
initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

4,20 Mrd. € 4
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
22.094 4
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
44 4
initiative

Number of participants in these events 1.425 4

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

12 4
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
39 4
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative

Project
part-financed
49
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-

1:6 4
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 84% 4

Number of company visits per year within

158 1
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
30 4
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
~ 25% 4
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative 60 4

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

1 1
within cluster initiative

50 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Furniture and Wood Construction Cluster

Type of financing: public and private Funding

Date of foundation: January 2003

Short description: established through the TMG, a service-oriented non-profit organi-

sation with a wide shareholder structure that comprises all impor-
tant public institutions. Successful focusing of the cluster initiative
at the current needs of the regional industry was secured through
the support of a cluster advisory board, an expert committee with
members of regional industry.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: February 2006

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

196 3
initiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of
2,2 Mrd. € 3
cluster initiative

Cumulative number of employees of partner

17.800 3
companies in the cluster initiative

Number of organized events within cluster

111 12
initiative

Number of participants in these events 4.915 12

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

57 12
ter initiative

Number of companies participating in these

254 12
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative

Project
part-financed
51
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-

1:6 1
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 92% 1

Number of company visits per year within

160 12
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in clus-
8 1
ter initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation pro-
~25% 12
jects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative ~46% 12

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

1 1
within cluster initiative

52 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Foodcluster

Type of financing: Public and privat funding

Date of foundation: September 2000

Short description: The Upper Austrian Food Cluster (UA FC) is a cross-sector
network of food-producing companies, their direct and indirect
suppliers and R&D and qualification facilities. Using synergies
to enhance the innovatory strenght improves the regional and
supra-regional competitiveness.

The Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce is the body

responsible for the Upper Austrian Food Cluster. All measures
within the framework of the Upper Austrian Food Cluster are
financed by the Province of Upper Austria from the Upper
Austrian Future Fund, Provincial Agrarian Funds, the Upper
Austrian Chamber of Commerce and contributions from
network partners, and implemented in co-operation with the
Provincial Chamber of Agriculture, the Federation of Austrian
Industrialists and the Upper Austrian Chamber of Labour.

Country: Austria, Upper Austria

Indicators’ last elevation: May 2006

How often this

Indicator Number indicator is evaluated
per year?

Number of partner companies in the cluster

171 permanent
initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

~ 1,9 Mrd. € permanent
cluster initiative

Cumulative number of employees of partner

17.324 permanent
companies in the cluster initiative

Project
part-financed
53
by the European Union
Number of organized events within cluster
153 permanent
initiative

Number of participants in these events 2.878 permanent

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

37 permanent
ter initiative

54 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: BioKneX: the East Midlands Bioscince Knowledge Exchange

Type of financing: Higher Education HEIF-2 funding and Regional Development EU

funding

Date of foundation: August 2004

Short description: BioKnex was formed through collaboration between three East
Midlands Universities: Nottingham Trent University, the University
of Nottingham and the University of Leicester. It is part of the UK
Knowledge Exchange initiative funded by Hefce and is the only
bioscience specialist Knowledge exchange. The organisation
works as interface between Academia and Industry to raise the
profile of bioscience research between East Midlands organisa-
tions and to promote the East Midlands internationally as a region
of bioscience excellence and growth potential.

Country: UK

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

132 1
initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

no data 1
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
no data 1
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
25 1
initiative

Number of participants in these events 10-200 1

Project
part-financed
55
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

20 1
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
3-30 1
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
no data 1
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative 274 1

Number of company visits within cluster ini-

100 1
tiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
3 1
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
100% 1
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative 100% 1

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

56 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: eminate

Type of financing: Industry + National + Regional

Date of foundation: July 2005

Short description: eminate is a cluster of nanotechnology research centres estab-

lished to meet industry needs for advanced materials, processing
and characterisation requirements, particularly in the healthcare
and engineering sectors. The University of Nottingham leads the
initiative and is currently undertaking the complete refurbishment
of a building in the City of Nottingham utilising funding from the
local RDA. Further funding for staff and specialist equipment has
been secured from the UK National Government.
e.g. establishment process (company driven, driven by regional authority);
leader of cluster initiative; successes

Country: UK

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster 10 companies

continuously
initiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of
0.25 billion euro -
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
10,000 -
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
0 to date 4
initiative

Number of participants in these events 0 to date -

Project
part-financed
57
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

2 -
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
20 4
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
75% -
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative currently 25% 4

Number of company visits within cluster ini- will start in

4
tiative summer 2006
Number of involved actors/institution in
5 Universities -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
0 -
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative 50% -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

58 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: Compare

Type of financing: no data

Date of foundation: January 2000

Short description: A world-class industry cluster that provides a shared platform for
IT businesses in Karlstad and the County of Wermland. Compare
Karlstad is the result of an initiative undertaken by some of the
largest IT companies in the Karlstad region some years ago.

Country: Sweden

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

85 about once a year
initiative

Cumulative turnover of partner companies of

200 million Euro as above
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
5000 as above
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
6 as above
initiative

Number of participants in these events 100 as above

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

no data -
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
no data -
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
no data -
pared to investment costs)

Project
part-financed
59
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Rate of SME of cluster initiative no data -

Number of company visits per year within

no data -
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
no data -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
no data -
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative no data -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

60 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: IUC Wermland

Type of financing: Driven by regional authority

Date of foundation: In the late -90th when 17 IUC started in Sweden

Short description: Limited company owned by 42 independent companies with

the role as driving force for linking ideas, capital, new
products and new SME in the region. IUC is responsible for
educational and competence activities among the
members.

Country: Sweden

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster ini-

42 about once a year
tiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of
no data -
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
500 as above
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster ini-
4 as above
tiative

Number of participants in these events 50 as above

Number of co-operation projects in the cluster

no data -
initiative
Number of companies participating in these co-
no data -
operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant compared
no data -
to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative no data -

Project
part-financed
61
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of company visits per year within clus-

no data -
ter initiative
Number of company visits per year within clus-
no data -
ter initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
no data -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation projects
no data -
in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative no data -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

62 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: The Paper Province

Type of financing: Economic association

Date of foundation: 1999

Short description: The Paper Province is an economic association that co-ordinates

and develops co-operation between participants in the pulp and
paper technology business in Wermland, northern Dalsland and
Närke in central Sweden. The main focus is on Packaging tech-
nology.

Country: Sweden

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

54 about once a year
initiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of about 800
about once a year
cluster initiative million Euro
Cumulative number of employees of partner
about 10000 about once a year
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
2 as above
initiative

Number of participants in these events about 300 as above

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

no data -
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
40 as above
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
no data -
pared to investment costs)

Project
part-financed
63
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Rate of SME of cluster initiative no data -

Number of company visits per year within

no data -
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
no data -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
no data -
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative no data -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

64 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: TDI Tool and Die Innovation in Sweden

Type of financing: Partly national and regional public money and incomes from sold
services to individual companies

Date of foundation: 2003

Short description: Driven by regional authority

Country: Sweden

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

15 about once a year
initiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of about 140
as above
cluster initiative million Euro
Cumulative number of employees of partner
700 as above
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
2 as above
initiative

Number of participants in these events 100 as above

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

no data -
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
no data -
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
no data -
pared to investment costs)

Rate of SME of cluster initiative no data -

Project
part-financed
65
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of company visits per year within

no data -
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
no data -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
no data -
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative no data -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

66 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
Name of cluster initiative: The Packaging Arena

Type of financing: no data

Date of foundation: no data

Short description: The purpose of The Packaging Arena is to share knowledge. The
vision is to "gather the best packaging competence in the world"
and market it in the global arena. Behind this vision are the unique
features of the region, a clear focus on the consumer and an open
climate of collaboration.

Country: Sweden

Indicators’ last elevation: no data

Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Number of partner companies in the cluster

13 about once a year
initiative
Cumulative turnover of partner companies of
250 million Euro as above
cluster initiative
Cumulative number of employees of partner
no data -
companies in the cluster initiative
Number of organized events within cluster
2 as above
initiative

Number of participants in these events about 100 as above

Number of co-operation projects in the clus-

no data -
ter initiative
Number of companies participating in these
no data -
co-operation projects in the cluster initiative
Leverage of cluster initiative (grant com-
no data -
pared to investment costs)

Project
part-financed
67
by the European Union
 Indicator Number Evaluation per year

Rate of SME of cluster initiative no data -

Number of company visits per year within

no data -
cluster initiative
Number of involved actors/institution in
no data -
cluster initiative
Rate of public funding of cooperation
no data -
projects in cluster initiative

Rate of public funding of cluster initiative no data -

Customer satisfaction analysis per year

no data -
within cluster initiative

68 Project
part-financed
by the European Union
 Acknowledgements

Grateful acknowledgement is made for the generous giving of

time and experience by the partner regions without them this
publication could not have come into being:

• City of Karlsruhe
• TMG – Technologie- und Marketinggesellschaft m.b.H.
of Upper Austria
• Tartu Science Park
• Lyon CCI
• Region of Wermland
• City Hall of Timisoara
• City of Nottingham
• Kaliningrad Regional Development Agency

Imprint

TMG – Technologie- und Marketinggesellschaft m.b.H. of Upper Austria

Hafenstraße 47-51
A-4020 Linz
www.tmg.at

inno GmbH
Auhofstraße 171/1
A-1130 Wien
www.inno-group.com

Project
part-financed
69
by the European Union
 www.clusterforum.org
Contacts:

Karlsruhe
The Economic Development
Department of Karlsruhe
Mr Steffen Buhl
Tel +49 721 133 7343
[email protected]
www.karlsruhe.de/Wirtschaft

Linz
Oberõsterreichische Technologie- und
Marketinggesellschaft m.b.H (TMG)
Mrs. Beatrice Negeli-Ganz
Tel +43 732 79810 5065
[email protected]
www.tmg.at or www.clusterland.at

Lyon
Chambre de Commerce d’Industrie de Lyon
(Rhone-Alpes Region)
Mr Franck Gautheron
Tel +33 472 40 59 46
[email protected]
www.lyon.cci.fr

Tartu
Tartu Science Park
Mr Rene Tonnisson
Tel +372 50 29 873
[email protected]
www.park.tartu.ee

Värmland
Handelskammaren Värmland
Mr Ingar Jensen
Tel +46 54 22 1480
[email protected]
www.wermland.cci.se

Timisoara
Primaria Minicipiului Timisoara
Ms Aurelia Junie
Tel +40 256 29 3605
[email protected]
www.primariatm.ro

Kaliningrad
Kaliningrad Regional Development Agency
Mr Grigory Bunatian
Tel/fax +007 095 927-0678
[email protected]
www.kaliningrad-rda.org

Nottingham
Nottingham City Council
Economic Development Department
Ms Zoe Jepson
Tel: +44 115 915 5170
North East South West [email protected]
INTERREG IIIC www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk
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CLOE Guide cover.indd 2 18/5/06 10:35:37