Cluster Manager Education

The BSR Cluster Manager Education project was developed to strengthen cluster leadership across the Baltic Sea Region. As part of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region (EUSBSR), the project focused on enhancing the leadership skills and competencies of cluster managers to drive innovation, collaboration, and competitiveness. A one-year international training program, validated by ECVET standards, was created to professionalize the role of cluster managers and improve the effectiveness of clusters in fostering regional economic growth.

The project addressed four core areas critical to cluster management:

• Leadership and Collaboration
• Strategic Management
• Digitalization
• Innovation Scouting

The newly developed training program equipped cluster managers with practical tools and methodologies to improve stakeholder collaboration, identify innovative opportunities, and integrate digital solutions into their operations. Beyond the training, the project also raised awareness among over 100 European clusters, highlighting the importance of professional cluster management and promoting the adoption of the new program.

Hyper Island led the Collaboration & Leadership module, focusing on practical strategies for communication and facilitation, particularly in remote and digital settings. This module empowered participants to build stronger networks, enhance team dynamics, and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

By applying its signature experiential learning approach, Hyper Island ensured the training was hands-on, engaging, and immediately applicable. Participants left the program equipped to navigate the complex demands of cluster management and drive innovation within their clusters.

This project was complemented by a related initiative, BSRCNP (BSR Cluster Networking Platform), supported by the Swedish Institute. While the BSR Cluster Manager Education focused on training, BSRCNP elaborated on the creation of a multi-level network platform for clusters in the Baltic Sea Region and provided valuable insights to support cluster managers.

For more information about the program curriculum, participant booklet, surveys, and additional resources, visit the BSR Cluster Manager Education project page on the Erasmus+ platform.

For social media updates, photos, and posts about this project, check out the project’s LinkedIn page.