Cluster policy and supporting tools consistent with cluster's stage of development-good practice examples as an inspiration for the Czech cluster policy advancement

Abstract

An existence of a relevant policy based on clusters constitutes an inseparable element of an optimal development of business clusters. Support for clusters and a cluster concept development varies across countries, which have been adjusting their cluster-based policy approach accordingly to their individual country-specific industrial and economic conditions. The goal of this paper is to identify the weaknesses of the current cluster support system in the Czech Republic, learn from the experience and good practice examples from abroad with focus on the issue of cluster support according to their maturity, and present recommendations for the Czech cluster policy advancement. This paper focuses on an analysis of cluster policies in the selected European Union countries devoting a special attention to support for clusters according to their stage of development (maturity). The examples of good practices from abroad are distinguished, with a closer look to the Hungarian cluster policy and its accreditation system as the best practice example. In addition, the background as well as the current status of the Czech cluster policy and its deficiencies is highlighted. On a basis of conducted analysis, suggestions as to how to improve cluster policy in the Czech Republic and recommendations for its further development are being presented.