A cluster is a natural existing area of economic and technological strength. Consequent development of clusters is an essential part of the Upper Austrian cluster policy, with the aim to boost the innovation efficiency of the companies when cooperating with other firms in their areas. Therefore, clusters were gradually developed in important economic regions of Upper Austria since 1998: Automotive Cluster, Plastics Cluster, Eco-Energy Cluster, Furniture & Timber Construction Cluster, Food Cluster, Health Technology Cluster, Mechatronics Cluster and Environmental Technology Cluster.

The cluster idea was developed by the American scientist Michael Porter (Porter’s Diamond Model). His diamond model offers a method that can help understand the comparative position of a geographic region in global competition. Clusters are groups of interconnected firms, suppliers, related industries and institutions that arise in certain locations. Clusters give a key position with a sustainable competitive advantage over other companies. Another formula for success are the advisory boards in each cluster, these provide support in strategic questions.  >> Details to Michael Porter and the Diamond Model

Cluster policy targets:

• Improvement of the competitiveness and innovative strengths of companies
• Supporting particularly small & medium-sized enterprises
• Innovation through cooperation

6 clusters are part of Clusterland Oberösterreich GmbH: 

Clusterland  Upper Austria		Partner	Start
Automotive		Vehicle manufacturers and automotive sub-suppliers, as well as the relevant machine and plant constructors and service companies.	July 1998
Plastics		Manufacturers and processors of plastics, machinery, moulds and tools, as well as service suppliers.	April  1999
Furniture & Timber Construction		Manufacturers of furniture and wood constructions, as well as their sub-suppliers and companies offering special services.	January 2000
Health Technology		Companies in the medical and rehabilitation technology sector.	March 2002
Mechatronics		Companies in the mechanical engineering and plant building sector, equipment and apparatus construction, special technology suppliers and services companies.	January 2003
Environmental Technology		Technology suppliers, know-how providers and technology users in the areas of water, waste, soil, air and noise.	January 2006 (before November 2009 "Network Environmental Technology")

Clusterland Upper Austria		Partner	Start	Owner
Eco-Energy		Companies in the renewable energy sector.	March 2000	OOe Energiesparverband
Food		Food production companies, their direct and indirect suppliers, R&D and educational bodies.	September 2000	Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce