RegioClusterAgentur for Innovation and Transformation in Baden-Wuerttemberg (RCA BW)
About this good practice
Like in many regions around the world, organisations in Baden-Wuerttemberg are facing significant transformation in economy. Major economic sectors in the region, such as the automotive industry, are undergoing significant change. Digital tools and processes are challenging traditional industries by changing production processes and business models. In addition to technological change, regions also face challenges such as skills shortages, land scarcity and environmentally sustainable business practices. A key factor in competitiveness is how the regions and their companies adapt to these international trends and challenges.
The RCA BW is the operational measure of the state-wide cluster policy and aims to support cluster initiatives and regional development institutions. The RCA BW offers a range of services, including strategic advice, coaching, practical support and events on technological and business topics. The main aim of the RCA BW is to broaden the scope of regional cluster initiatives and economic development organisations to benefit from the knowledge and experience of others. To achieve this, the RCA BW facilitates the networking of cluster initiatives and regional business development organisations in Baden-Wuerttemberg, as well as establishing links with national and international players.
Resources needed
The project is receiving funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and state funds. About four to six people are currently working on the project.
Evidence of success
In 2023, the RCA BW was able to work more closely with around 50 different intermediaries in Baden-Wuerttemberg and support their further development. Overall, there is a high demand for the RCA BW's measures and services. A total of around 60 activities were implemented. The development of a new instrument by RCA BW to measure transformation activities in specific areas has led to a high level of interest in the work of RCA BW among regional economic development organisations.
Potential for learning or transfer
The RCA BW was founded to ensure equal and feasible support for the diverse cluster and regional development landscape in Baden-Wuerttemberg. The RCA BW project has a modular and flexible structure, so that the cluster initiatives can approach the RCA BW with their respective needs and problems, and the RCA BW staff can develop very problem-specific solutions together with the customers.
In recent years, it has been recognised that the clientele of regional innovation systems is no longer exclusively cluster initiatives, but increasingly also regional economic development agencies. The target group has been broadened accordingly.
The project can be seen as a good practice due to the combination of centralized support and flexible topic-oriented measures. It is particularly interesting in the context of broad-based innovation support, which is not aimed at individual organisations but at a larger target group. This approach could also be transferred to other regions.
Further information
Good practice owner
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