How to organize the work of a cluster to achieve results – answers in the project supported by EU4Business

We invite you to watch the sixth video in our 10-part series, developed by the “Ukrainian WoodHouse Cluster” team in partnership with Board, within the EU4Business program, funded by the European Union and the German Government.

The choice of a cluster’s organizational structure directly dictates its operational efficiency. To address the differences between centralized and decentralized structures and the requirements they must meet, we have invited a top-tier expert to clarify the roles and functions of cluster management, as well as how to ensure effective coordination among participants.

Expert Insight: The German Model of Cluster Governance

The featured speaker, Dr. Gunnar Merz, CEO of Composites United e.V., shares his extensive experience in building the organizational framework for a successful German cluster.

Key technical topics covered by Dr. Merz:

• Centralized Management Model: Insights into how this model allows for the seamless coordination of a cluster’s strategic objectives.
• Member Communication & Services: Strategies for identifying and satisfying participant needs through specialized value-added services.
• Internal Infrastructure: Practical advice on building internal sub-structures and defining clear roles within the management team.
• Effective Coordination: Establishing robust mechanisms for interaction and synergy between all cluster members.

The EU4Business program is dedicated to ensuring that every entrepreneur has the tools to contribute to their nation’s economic success. We are showcasing how our practical step-by-step guide to cluster formation serves as a catalyst for the growth of SMEs in Ukraine.

With the strategic support of the international business community Board, we anticipate active participation from entrepreneurs who will receive concrete, actionable recommendations to foster the structural development of their clusters.

Expert Insight: The German Model of Cluster Governance

The featured speaker, Dr. Gunnar Merz, CEO of Composites United e.V., shares his extensive experience in building the organizational framework for a successful German cluster.

Key technical topics covered by Dr. Merz:

• Centralized Management Model: Insights into how this model allows for the seamless coordination of a cluster’s strategic objectives.
• Member Communication & Services: Strategies for identifying and satisfying participant needs through specialized value-added services.
• Internal Infrastructure: Practical advice on building internal sub-structures and defining clear roles within the management team.
• Effective Coordination: Establishing robust mechanisms for interaction and synergy between all cluster members.

The EU4Business program is dedicated to ensuring that every entrepreneur has the tools to contribute to their nation’s economic success. We are showcasing how our practical step-by-step guide to cluster formation serves as a catalyst for the growth of SMEs in Ukraine.

With the strategic support of the international business community Board, we anticipate active participation from entrepreneurs who will receive concrete, actionable recommendations to foster the structural development of their clusters.

Background Information: 

This project is implemented under the grant competition for systemic SME support within the international cooperation program “EU4Business: Recovery, Competitiveness, and Internationalization of SMEs,”co-funded by the European Union and the German Government.

The EU4Business program is strategically designed to bolster Ukraine’s economic stability, recovery, and long-term expansion. By creating a more favorable environment for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), it directly supports the technical implementation of innovations and the scaling of exports. For more details, visit: www.eu4business.org.ua

Institutional Support & Partners:

• Business Development Fund (BDF): Executor of the grant competition.
• Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.
• Ukrainian WoodHouse Cluster: The dedicated implementation partner.

The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the Ukrainian WoodHouse Cluster and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union, the German Government, or the BDF.