TCI 2016 Learnings from Catalonia

This document summarizes Catalonia's cluster policy approach over the past 25 years. The policy has evolved through four phases since 1993, with a current focus on microclusters, internal skill development, project diversification, and policy innovation. Key elements of the Catalan approach include fostering strategic change using Porter's analysis tools, public-private partnerships, cross-sectoral cooperation, and continuous improvement through learning by doing. The cluster program has helped over 2,100 members in 30 clusters and led to increased turnover, employment, and dialogue between government and the private sector. Main lessons learned are that clusters require customized approaches within a common framework and that people are key to successful clustering.