The Competition

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Selection of the Leading-Edge Clusters

The basis for the selection and funding of a Leading-Edge Cluster is the development of common strategic goals and the definition of future development projects in a particular area of technology. The involvement of the key players in the region's innovation and value-added chains is a major prerequisite. The following criteria are pivotal in terms of strategy:

• Significant financial involvement of industry and private investors.
• Planned projects build on strengths and lead to sustainable changes.
• Increase in innovative capability and development of competitively relevant unique selling points to attain / consolidate a leading international position.
• Measures to develop and try out innovative forms of co-operation, including professional cluster management.
• Cluster-specific training, qualification and promotion of young talent.

There are no thematic stipulations. The applicants with the best strategies for future markets in their respective sectors are selected.