Clusters bridging place-based policies with Europe's industrial ambitions

This session will explore links and bridges between EU industrial policy (the Clean Industrial Deal & Industrial Accelerator Act) and regional development policies, and examine how regional and local authorities can leverage clusters to better connect their SMEs with the EU's evolving industrial policy priorities. Discussions will focus on three key dimensions: 1) strategic partnerships between public authorities and clusters; 2) alignment with EU industrial priorities; and 3) clusters in interregional cooperation to scale innovation and reduce disparities. Regional best practices will illustrate how clusters can act as engines of competitiveness, resilience and structural transformation.