Theoretical-methodological and practical questions on socio-economic
development, regional policy, the introduction of new forms of specialization and
cooperation, including the proliferation of clustering processes are covered and
highlighted in the writings of Ukrainian scientists M.I. Dolishnii, V.I. Zakharchenko,
S.M. Zlupko, U.V. Makohon, J.B. Oliinyk, V.M. Osypiv, and others. Scientific views
converge on the fact that the most appropriate approach to stimulate structural
transformations and innovative development of regional socio-economic systems is the
implementation of the cluster approach.
Key interests and principles of using the potential of cluster policy remain
insufficiently substantiated. A definite task must be solved in a complex manner in the
paradigm of relations "government - population - business".
Potential of cluster policy in stimulating innovative development of regions.
In the knowledge system of economy, the category "cluster" is interpreted from the
standpoint of dissemination the newest forms of specialization and cooperation,
integration and consolidation of activities in the economic complex of a separate
territory, at the interregional and world levels. Clusters are characterized by systemic
relations based on the concentration of networks of suppliers, producers, consumers,
representatives of market infrastructure and other stakeholders, united by cluster
initiatives, the reproduction process and the technological cycle.
A higher level of specialization and cooperation in the region are clusters of
enterprises that combine both the sectoral and territorial concentration. In the world
this form of specialization and concentration was developed long ago, more than a
century ago.
The term "cluster" comes from the English language and is defined as a "bundle",
"congestion". For the first time, the definition of this category was provided by Michael
Porter: the cluster is a geographically concentrated group of interrelated enterprises,
specialized suppliers, service providers, firms in relevant industries, and related firms
(eg universities, standardization agencies, and trade associations) in certain areas of
activity competing but actively working [1].
The implementation of cluster initiatives is possible only if the state regional
policy in the field of clustering is activated and favourable macroeconomic,
information, and legal environment are created. It is necessary to build a reliable
information platform for the development of clusters, carry out a thorough analysis and
adjustment of cluster policy at each stage of the cluster process, unite the efforts of the
state, the private sector and public organizations to promote the development of
regional and interregional clusters in Ukraine [2].
V.I. Zakharchenko feels that clusters are inter-sectoral formations localized on a
certain territory, including the entire chain of interrelated activities from production to
the final product and service sector. In a modern economy, which is characterized by
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