Helping regions build cluster strategies

The Center for Cluster Development helps economic development practitioners understand, prioritize, and implement industry cluster strategies that support stronger businesses, innovation, and employment outcomes.

About clusters

Why clusters matter?

Clusters connect local businesses, suppliers, workforce, and institutions in related sectors. This coordinated approach has been shown to support stronger innovation outcomes and more resilient economic growth.

Identify strategic sectors

Helps regions understand which sectors drive local competitiveness and where targeted support can deliver measurable results.

Focus resources effectively

Aligns public, nonprofit, and private efforts around shared priorities rather than spreading limited resources across unrelated initiatives.

Strengthen local outcomes

Supports stronger business growth, talent development, innovation activity, and regional resilience through coordinated action.

Training materials

Practical articles and tools

Prioritizing Assistance – Fall 2025 Session 4

Fourth in a series of six sessions on cluster identification and prioritization. Content produced by Excel Regional Solutions for the […]

Qualitative Assessment – Fall 2025 Session 3

Third in a series of six sessions on cluster identification and prioritization. Content produced by Excel Regional Solutions for the […]

Apply Today

Resources Coming Fall 2026

The deadline for full consideration is March 26. After this date, any remaining training spaces and additional assistance will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
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