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Copenhagen - analysing cluster potential

Analysing regional clusters is a delicate business, which requires a balance of qualitative and quantitative methods and data. Analysing potential future clusters is even more challenging. However that is exactly what was accomplished in a recent report by the Greater Copenhagen Development Council.

There is a very clear understanding around the Danish capital region of the importance of clusters in tourism, life sciences and IT. What is becoming ever clearer is that these 'mega-clusters' are too broad.

For example: parts of the IT industry will probably decline, while other IT-sectors may grow rapidly. For policy makers to be able to develop appropriate support regarding regional competitiveness, they must understand which clusters are most likely to drive future growth.

The key question answered in the report was: What clusters are likely to be competitive and generate jobs 10-15 years from now?

The report identified potential clusters and analysed performance and growth potential for 18 potential clusters in this region. Seven were then benchmarked by comparing them with 21world-leading clusters in England, France, Germany, the United States, Canada and Australia.

The analysis clearly showed that, especially in technology intensive areas such as nanotechnology, optics and bioinformatics, the region has great potential and possesses strong emerging clusters. The level of research and skilled, specialised labour is particularly strong.

The report also noted that access to capital is weak and the region therefore faces the very real danger that it will not be able to use its strengths to create a large number of jobs in the region itself. Based on these conclusions, discussions are currently taking place which to establish support for policies to further develop these emerging clusters.