Did you know that there are multiple clusters in North Savo? In many cases these clusters exist under Savonia’s umbrella. In addition, there are supporting entities connecting the different clusters and providing services.

What is a cluster then? In the context of the European Union, a cluster is defined as a regional ecosystem of related industries and competences featuring a broad array of inter-industry interdependencies. Specifically, clusters are groups of firms, related economic actors, and institutions that are located near each other and have reached a sufficient scale to develop specialized expertise, services, resources, suppliers, and skills.

Clusters play a significant role in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing competitiveness within the EU. They are seen as a framework for promoting collaboration, networking, and learning among businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP) is an initiative designed to support clusters across Europe by fostering collaboration, networking, and innovation. It aims to strengthen Europe’s resilience by connecting actors across countries, sectors, and industrial ecosystems. The ECCP provides various services, including information on cluster policies, funding opportunities, and events, as well as tools for cluster management and development.

The Network Expert of Agri-Food Cluster North Savo, Jade Hirvonen, and the Cluster Manager of the Kuopio Water Cluster Tiina Haatainen participated in the Cluster Booster Academy training program, organized by the European Cluster Collaboration Platform. The training provided a comprehensive understanding of cluster coordination and development, with a deep dive into value propositions and the construction of strategic action plans. The program aimed to challenge traditional cluster development thinking, promote collaboration and innovation, and create new value chains across Europe.

The training included three virtual sessions in November 2024, followed by in-person training days on March 3–4, 2025, in Warsaw, Poland.

Training content and key learnings

During the program, the following themes were explored:

• Strategic Cluster Development: Workshops and exercises helped clarify value propositions and develop concrete action plans. We gained new tools for setting and achieving strategic objectives.

• The Importance of Collaboration and Networking: One of the highlights of the program was the opportunity to meet inspiring clusters from across Europe. Through peer learning, we gained fresh perspectives and practical insights to enhance our own operations.

• Innovation and the Creation of New Value Chains: The training emphasized the importance of establishing new connections and collaboration opportunities between different industries and organizations. This approach strengthens the impact of clusters and fosters diverse services, particularly for SMEs.

New insights and practical benefits

Key takeaways from the training include:

• New methods for building strategy and value propositions, which we can apply within our own cluster to improve our offerings and enhance the impact of our services.

• Practical tools for cluster management that support both daily operations and the achievement of long-term goals.

• New partnerships and contacts across Europe, opening up opportunities for international collaboration and the development of new innovations.

Overall, Cluster Booster Academy provided a unique opportunity to learn, network, and gain inspiration. The insights gained will be reflected in our future projects and will help us develop our clusters into even stronger and more influential players in their respective fields.

Writers:

Tiina Haatainen, Senior Specialist, Kuopio Water Cluster, Water Safety Research Unit, Savonia UAS

Jade Hirvonen, RDI Specialist, Agri-Food Cluster North Savo, Food System Research Unit, Savonia UAS