Cluster Excellence Baden-Württemberg

The state government of Baden-Wuerttemberg systematically supports the (further) development of clusters, cluster initiative and the federal state's networks of regional, national and international visibility. Numerous cluster initiatives have already been awarded for winning national and regional competitions.

This is an undisputable proof of the success and the effectiveness of the cluster policy measures undertaken hitherto. Cluster policy is a central element of the federal state's innovation policy aiming to strengthen the innovation capacity and competitiveness of small and medium-sized companies.

Over the past years, a rich and well-balanced cluster landscape has developed in Baden-Wuerttemberg. A large number of companies, research institutes and universities are integrated in regional cluster-initiatives and networks at federal state level. The players of these cluster initiatives and networks are characterized by an intense and effective interaction.

The cluster participants are promoted by a variety of measures and activities. These include:

• Financial support for innovative projects of the cluster initiatives
• Promotion of the cluster initiatives' internationalisation
• Organization of cluster events at federal state and regional level 
• Studies on cluster-related issues
• Qualification offers for cluster managements
• Publications
• Transparency and information

All these activities represent elements of the forward-looking cluster work and policy in Baden Wuerttemberg. In order to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach and a uniform positioning, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Housing, the Association of Baden-Wuerttemberg's craft industry as well as the Association of Chambers of Industry and Commerce have defined a common understanding of cluster policy in a strategic paper.