Benchmarking Visit & Face-to face Academy by ACCIO : Empowering Cluster Development and Collaboration

Published on 18 May 2023

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The 1st Face-to-Face Academy Catalonia, held in Barcelona, has brought together many cluster managers and professionals to explore the crucial topics of cluster governance and strategy. This three-day event, organised by ACCIÓ and by Berytech in the framework of Euromed Clusters Forward project, aimed to enhance competitiveness, foster collaboration, and provide insights into the Catalan cluster ecosystem.

The first session focused on clusters as a tool to increase competitiveness, led by Alberto Pezzi, Senior Manager Clusters at ACCIÓ. Participants delved into the essential role of clusters in fostering economic growth and innovation. Joan Martí, Director of Business Strategy at ACCIÓ, took the stage to discuss cluster governance. To further explore governance aspects, the academy dedicated a session to understanding the role of the board in cluster management. Joan Martí elaborated on the board’s significance and its contribution to the cluster’s success.Dr. Ignasi Gómez Belinchón, Cluster Manager at In-move, and Marc Crous, CCO at RNB Cosmeticos and President of the Beauty Cluster Barcelona, shared their experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of effective governance in achieving cluster goals.

On day 2, the event continued delving deeper into strategic analysis and vision building. Maria Pedrals, Partner and Consultant at Cluster Development, discussed the key success factors for cluster initiatives, emphasizing the importance of defining the cluster’s business and vision. Joaquim Solana, Cluster Manager of Ambit (home & contract cluster), and Gawel Walczak, International Relations Manager at Secpho (deep tech cluster), shared their success stories and strategies.

On the last day, the participants were invited to choose from: the Fashion Itinerary and the Energy Itinerary. In the Fashion Itinerary, participants explored the Modacc cluster and visited the Escorpión showroom, among other highlights. Meanwhile, the Energy Itinerary allowed participants to learn about the Catalan Efficient Energy Cluster, visit AEInnova and Leitat technology centers, and experience the innovation at Circutor.

This 1st Face-to-Face Academy Catalonia provided a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and networking, enabling cluster managers and professionals to enhance their skills, explore industry trends, and establish connections within the vibrant Catalan cluster ecosystem.

A series of 16 Mediterranean Clusters Academies and benchmarking visits will be implemented along the next years. See you in Beirut for the 2nd Face to Face Academy!