Challenge
Orion Innovations was asked to determine whether there was demand and/or critical mass for the development and funding of a low carbon business cluster in the North East of England and, if so, to develop the strategy and plans needed to catalyse the development of this cluster.
Approach
Orion Innovations undertook a detailed regional assessment of companies and academic organisations operating in the low carbon sector to determine whether or not there was a critical mass, and commercial appetite, for the formation of a regional cluster. The project involved:
- Desk based data collection and a series of more than 30 face-to-face
and telephone-based interviews with key companies, organisations and stakeholders
- Preparation of a set of baseline data relating to regional
companies/academic organisations in the sector
- Mapping of the associated supply chain
- Identification of the potential foundations of strategic advantage
The study also involved national and international benchmarking of other regional and economic clusters in order to identify best practice.
Outcome
The project resulted in a series of clear conclusions and recommendations regarding the development of a cluster, including a strategic and operational plan. These recommendations are in the process of being implemented.
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