The new best practices guide, developed as part of the Clusters4Regions initiative, synthesizes real-world experiences in cluster development in Ukraine, as well as practical insights from the six pilot regions of the Clusters4Regions project. It is intended to serve as a practical tool for everyone working on regional economic development – from government bodies and regional development agencies to clusters, businesses, and expert communities.
The guide demonstrates how clusters can serve as key drivers of economic growth, innovation, and regional revitalization. It systematizes approaches to cluster creation and development, managing cluster initiatives, launching joint projects, and integrating into global value chains. Particular attention is paid to practices that promote the development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), cross-sectoral collaboration, digital transformation, and the green transition – as key priorities of the modern economy.
The guide is based on a practice-oriented approach: each recommendation is supported by real-world case studies, tools, and solutions that have already been implemented in the regions. Readers will find not only descriptions of successful practices, but also explanations of why they work, under what conditions they can be scaled up, and how to adapt them to their own regional context.
Special emphasis is placed on the role of clusters as integrators of business, science, and government, which enables the formation of sustainable innovation ecosystems and enhances the competitiveness of regions. It is through such ecosystems that the long-term impact of development programs is ensured and conditions are created for attracting investment and international partnerships.
The guide is also a logical continuation of the Clusters4Regions methodology and is fully aligned with the provisions of the new UCA operational model. As a result, the guide offers significant value in disseminating and scaling best practices across all regions of Ukraine. It helps transition from isolated initiatives to a systematic cluster policy based on fundamental principles and an understanding of “what real clusters are,” cooperation, and a results-oriented approach.
This guide is also a call to action – to form new partnerships, launch cluster initiatives, and work together on Ukraine’s economic development.