Cluster-network mechanism in ensuring innovative regional development

Abstract

The article discusses the theoretical and methodological foundations of clustering, which serve as the basis for a modern proactive innovation policy. The cluster-network mechanism, which is the most important tool for ensuring the innovative development of regions, is considered. The principle of regional cluster policy is singled out, aimed at progressive development by encouraging the formation of clusters in order to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that ensures economic growth and social well-being in the region. It is stated that the formation of a cluster economy is based on a set of interrelated theoretical, methodological and methodologically sound provisions revolving around the concept of a balance of economic and social interests in order to harmonize relations between regions. Strategies that can be used in the implementation of cluster policy are identified: increasing the critical mass; supporting innovation through funding, grants or other forms of financial assistance; encouragement of cooperation between cluster entities, which involves the creation of networks or platforms that facilitate the exchange of knowledge, or the holding of events and initiatives that bring together stakeholders; development of infrastructure that supports business in a particular industry or sector; creating an enabling policy environment that promotes the growth and development of clusters through a regulatory framework that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. The article substantiates the methodological groups of provisions for the creation of a cluster economy, formulated both positive (presence of modern technological and scientific infrastructure on the territory, readiness of all parties to cooperate, an effective system of interaction between various organizations), and constraining conditions (bad business climate, underdevelopment of associative structures, inadequate planning of the regional economy, neglecting the specific requirements of cluster development), necessary for the functioning of clusters. The definition of the cluster-network approach and its mechanism is also presented, as well as the various stages of the implementation of the cluster-network management model. The integral approach allows us to assess the diversity of the state of the economic system of the region with a high level of clustering. Reflected integral approach allows us to assess the diversity of the state of the economic system of the region with a high level of clustering. In addition, the article proposes a methodological approach to stimulating the cluster-network mechanism of regional development.