Definition of cluster

Definition of the cluster

The decree on the support and development of clusters defines the concept of clusters as follows:

By cluster, we mean the network of reference companies in an ecosystem, in the form of a not-for-profit association forming part of a mode of organisation of the productive system established on the initiative, for the most part, of companies operating in the Walloon Region, which may possibly involve the participation of competitiveness clusters, university institutions, research centres, skills centres and training centres, and which is characterised by :

  • the mobilisation of a critical mass representative of one or more areas of activity;
  • the establishment of a framework for cooperation around related activities;
  • the voluntary development of complementary relationships between cluster members;
  • contributing to the economic development of the respective ecosystem and strengthening the competitiveness of companies.

The purpose of clusters

In, among other things, Wallonia's current and future strategic sectors, supporting the economic development of SMEs, networking them and integrating them into their existing and future ecosystems, with the stated aim of developing the ecosystems in which these SMEs operate, by promoting innovation and creativity, both in Wallonia and internationally, in line with sustainable growth that meets environmental and societal challenges in particular.

The vision of clusters by 2030

By 2030, the Walloon clusters will have conquered the undisputed role of reference interface between Walloon SMEs and the components of their respective ecosystems.
The clusters will have established themselves as experts in their sector thanks, among other things, to their ability to proactively support Walloon SMEs in collaboration with all the public and private players in their field, with the aim of guaranteeing sustainable growth for SMEs.
These public and private players in the Walloon ecosystem will have recognised the clusters' local knowledge of their sector, their usefulness and the quality of their cooperation.

Cluster jobs

Creating networks and forums (including prospecting for new businesses)

  • Business development (including making the sector more attractive)
  • Structuring the sector
  • Unite the players in the ecosystems
  • Acting as an ambassador for the ecosystems (technological, political, legal monitoring, etc.)
  • Complementing and positioning itself in traditional and non-traditional value chains
  • Encouraging and stimulating innovation
  • Encouraging internationalisation
  • Supporting and encouraging the development of projects from both an economic and technological point of view
  • Supporting the sustainable development of all ecosystems
  • Encouraging the development of skills among ecosystem players