Description
Clusters drive regional competitiveness and innovation, but their full potential can only be realised through international engagement. Cross-border cooperation unlocks access to new markets, fosters knowledge exchange, and enables strategic partnerships—benefits that are especially valuable for SMEs, which often face barriers to internationalisation. Crafting targeted internationalisation strategies, participating in global networks, and supporting SMEs in identifying suitable international partners are essential steps toward building long-lasting, high-impact collaborations that reflect regional strengths and align with broader industrial priorities.
To explore how clusters can enhance global engagement and support their SMEs’ internationalisation, the European Cluster Collaboration Platform, on behalf of the European Commission, organised the EU Clusters Talk "Going Global: Creating Partnerships and Expanding Business Abroad" on 28 May, 8:30 – 9:45 CET. The session highlighted successful models of international cooperation, discussed strategic approaches to global networking, and showcased initiatives that supported clusters and SMEs in scaling their international presence.
Speakers included:
- Flavia Ferrasson, Policy Officer, DG TRADE, European Commission
- Ander González, Internationalisation Manager, Basque Energy Cluster
- Ewa Rekosz, International Affairs Director, Mazovia Cluster ICT
- Gytis Mikalauskas, Internationalisation Manager, Applied Research Institute for Prospective Technologies
- Josep Casamada, Project Manager, Tèxtils.CAT
- Sarra Boussaïdi, Project Manager, Anima Investment Network
This event is part of regular online meetings brought to the cluster community by the European Cluster Collaboration Platform. They offer up-to-date insights into the latest industrial policies and clusters’ involvement, projects, and best practices, the latest ECCP news, and funding opportunities. The EU Clusters Talks are a space to exchange knowledge and to discuss cluster-relevant topics, which will change with every meeting.
Summary
Please, find here the slides of this EU Cluster Talk.
Watch the full recording of the webinar: