Archive for April, 2011
Apr
15
2011
Is Global Competition Weakening the Benefits of Clusters ?
In a recent article published by The Economist, and using Italy as an example, the tendency to outsource manufacturing and supply to low-cost countries and regions (for instance China) is presented as a threat to existing cluster.
Although we can agree with the author that “picking apart” an established industry cluster with up and downstream relationships established can disrupt the dynamics of the cluster, it is also an opportunity to bring in new strategies for growth and industry development.
Leaning in the traditional cluster thoughts by Michael Porter as tools for economic development, perhaps it is time and an opportunity for the challenged clusters to further tighten their focus and strategy.
Facing increased competition, clusters can adopt traditional business strategies to further grow and strengthen its market presence. This can include strategic partnerships (to other clusters and complimentary R&D communities around the world), maketing strategy to create awareness and recognition around the world, business led growth strategies and more.
No Comments • Categories: Uncategorized
Apr
08
2011
The European Cluster Manager’s Club
Set up under the European Cluster Excellence Initiative with financial support through the European Union, The European Cluster Manager’s Club is an organization that that is seeking to organize Cluster Managers as a professional networking tool, sharing of best practices and help to grow the overall quality among Cluster Managers.
More information at the organization’s Web site
No Comments • Categories: Uncategorized
Apr
05
2011
Top Ten Cleantech Cities in the United States
Cleantechies recently presented a list of the leading 10 cleantech cities in the United States, in large driven by Innovation, Policy and industry support. The top three cities are:
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Jose, California
- Austin, Texas
The entire list can be found here: CleanTechies
No Comments • Categories: Uncategorized
Apr
05
2011
Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) in Long Island, New York.
Long Island, New York, will soon be home to a Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) combining the resources of Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
The project reflects an Obama administration strategy to establish RICs around the country that will stimulate business and the economy.

Cold Spring Harbor Lab
Long Island, New York, will soon be home to a Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) combining the resources of Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
The project reflects an Obama administration strategy to establish RICs around the country that will stimulate business and the economy.
No Comments • Categories: Uncategorized
15 2011
Is Global Competition Weakening the Benefits of Clusters ?
In a recent article published by The Economist, and using Italy as an example, the tendency to outsource manufacturing and supply to low-cost countries and regions (for instance China) is presented as a threat to existing cluster.
Although we can agree with the author that “picking apart” an established industry cluster with up and downstream relationships established can disrupt the dynamics of the cluster, it is also an opportunity to bring in new strategies for growth and industry development.
Leaning in the traditional cluster thoughts by Michael Porter as tools for economic development, perhaps it is time and an opportunity for the challenged clusters to further tighten their focus and strategy.
Facing increased competition, clusters can adopt traditional business strategies to further grow and strengthen its market presence. This can include strategic partnerships (to other clusters and complimentary R&D communities around the world), maketing strategy to create awareness and recognition around the world, business led growth strategies and more.
08 2011
The European Cluster Manager’s Club
Set up under the European Cluster Excellence Initiative with financial support through the European Union, The European Cluster Manager’s Club is an organization that that is seeking to organize Cluster Managers as a professional networking tool, sharing of best practices and help to grow the overall quality among Cluster Managers.
More information at the organization’s Web site
05 2011
Top Ten Cleantech Cities in the United States
Cleantechies recently presented a list of the leading 10 cleantech cities in the United States, in large driven by Innovation, Policy and industry support. The top three cities are:
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Jose, California
- Austin, Texas
The entire list can be found here: CleanTechies
05 2011
Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) in Long Island, New York.
Cold Spring Harbor Lab
Long Island, New York, will soon be home to a Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) combining the resources of Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
The project reflects an Obama administration strategy to establish RICs around the country that will stimulate business and the economy.

