I3 Instrument Support Facility virtual event - The role of clusters and networks in Interregional Innovation Investments

The Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument, financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), fosters collaboration across regions by supporting innovation projects in shared smart specialisation areas and the creation of interregional value chains. A broad spectrum of stakeholders contributes to the implementation of these projects, with cluster organisations playing a particularly prominent role. Notably, approximately 70% of the funded I3 Instrument projects include clusters as consortium members, showing their strategic importance in driving interregional innovation and investment. In total numbers, up to September 2024, 77 clusters are or have participated in I3 Instrument projects across the three different strands. Clusters are uniquely positioned to lead and facilitate I3 Instrument initiatives, bringing together key innovation actors from industry, academia, and the public sector. Additionally, for many years, clusters have been very active in cohesion policy, acting as intermediaries and catalysts within regional innovation ecosystems. They facilitate collaboration between stakeholders, enhancing industrial engagement, driving cross-sector innovation, knowledge exchange and resource sharing.

Objectives of the session

In this session, we will explore the value of clusters in the implementation of I3 Instrument projects. The session will provide concrete examples of ongoing I3 Instrument projects, the role and activities clusters play in them, and discuss how to enhance cluster participation and actions in the I3 Instrument framework in the future. Additionally, the role clusters can play in building interregional value chains and contribute to sustaining collaboration after the completion of the project will be discussed.  

Concretely, the session will:  

• Showcase examples of clusters involved in I3 Instrument projects.
• Explain the different roles that clusters can take on in I3 Instrument projects, including coordinating, ensure quadruple helix participation, building interregional value chains, access to investments, ensure sustainable follow-up after project completion.
• Offer an exchange on how clusters can strengthen their impact within the I3 Instrument framework.