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

This session will explore links and bridges between EU industrial policy (Clean Industrial Deal & Industrial Accelerator Act) and regional development policies and will 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 partnership between public authorities and clusters 2) alignment with EU industrial priorities and 3) clusters 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.