klusterutvalg

Klusterutvalg is a Norwegian term that translates to cluster committee or cluster board. It refers to a governing or advisory body created to coordinate, promote, and develop a cluster of organizations that share common interests, such as companies, research institutions, and public bodies within a geographic region or sector. The concept is tied to clustering policy, whereby regional or national authorities seek to strengthen innovation, competitiveness, and collaboration through organized group action.

The typical functions of a klusterutvalg include developing and overseeing a cluster strategy, evaluating project proposals, allocating resources or funding, and monitoring progress toward predefined goals. The committee commonly acts as a platform for dialogue among cluster participants, enabling collaboration on research and development, talent development, and market initiatives. It may also serve as a liaison to government agencies, investors, and other stakeholders, ensuring alignment with broader regional development objectives.

Composition and governance structures vary, but a klusterutvalg usually comprises representatives from member organizations within the cluster, such as firms of different sizes, universities or research institutes, and local or regional authorities. Members are often appointed for fixed terms, and decisions are typically made by consensus or majority vote, sometimes with formal charters or bylaws that define responsibilities and reporting duties.

In practice, klusterutvalg are established within regional development programs or sector-specific initiatives and can be funded by public grants, private investment, or a combination thereof. The exact powers and responsibilities depend on the founding agreement and the governing framework of the hosting organization.