FAC STRATEGIC BRIEF

EUROPEAN AEROSPACE CLUSTER PARTNERSHIP

EUROPEAN AEROSPACE CLUSTER PARTNERSHIP

Motivation

To compete successfully on a global scale, it has become essential for Europe to actively enhance its innovative potential and engage in collaboration across regions and industry clusters. The European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP) offers a permanent platform for mutual exchange, policy learning, and cooperation, aimed at achieving high-level performance among European aerospace clusters. It emphasizes sharing experiences related to both cluster policy and the implementation of effective solutions necessary for overcoming challenges faced by its partners. After 15 years of operation, EACP now encompasses a network of 45 aerospace clusters from 18 European countries, thereby significantly covering the entire aerospace value chain in Europe.

The Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry is undergoing significant transformations. As new entrants and cutting-edge technologies emerge, global competition is increasingly intensifying. While long-term growth forecasts remain predominantly optimistic, enduring success will be reserved for those who excel in developing and executing innovative products and services, particularly in the realm of environmental and ecological sustainability. To effectively cater to the global market and provide highly specialized offerings, collaboration among companies and entire regions is crucial. It is in a cooperative landscape, where partners engage and reciprocate on an equal footing, that mutually beneficial outcomes can be realized. With a robust foundation built on experience and trust, cooperation within the EACP is elevated to new heights. This initiative encompasses the creation of a shared space for work, training, and scientific research for all stakeholders within the European aerospace sector.

European Cluster Policy

EACP was founded in 2009 as part of CLUNET, a PRO INNO EUROPE initiative that not only fostered the sharing of experiences but also facilitated the execution of tangible pilot projects focused on cluster innovation and development policies. Over the course of five years, EACP evolved into a sustainable partnership among collaborating European aerospace clusters. While its scope is confined to the aerospace sector, the partnership also acts as a model for other industries. In 2013, EACP received recognition from the European Commission as one of 13 “European Strategic Cluster Partnerships” (ESCP). This accolade highlights EACP’s commitment to enhancing global competitiveness by promoting pan-European collaboration and executing joint strategies essential for penetrating new markets beyond Europe.

The Common Goal

By fostering stronger inter-cluster connections that enhance the overall market value, EACP cultivates relationships between clusters, industry stakeholders, and policymakers. Additionally, EACP encourages innovation development, with the goal of bolstering the EU's competitive standing in the global aerospace market.

Stakeholders Represented within EACP

EACP membership is accessible to aerospace clusters located in European Union Member States and neighbouring countries. To gain entry into the network, a member must encompass all facets of the regional aerospace sector, including industry, research and development, and administrative organizations. The primary emphasis should be on civil aviation, with at least 60% of the represented stakeholders from this area.

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