The General Directorate for Competitiveness, Industry and Services (DGCIS) at the Ministry of the Economy, Industry and Employment has undertaken several actions to promote the international development of competitiveness clusters in line with their strategies set out in the performance contracts. In 2009, the DGCIS signed an agreement with the French Trade Commission (UBIFRANCE) to enhance support for clusters through joint actions by clusters in the same business sectors and events for SMEs in the clusters. In 2010, the DGCIS devoted EUR 750,000 to these actions. UBIFRANCE acts as the operator for these actions.

In June 2009, the DGCIS also made a call for proposals for “Competitive Cluster Ambassadors” to forge contacts with clusters in other countries and develop collaborative projects with the world’s best clusters. A second call for proposals for “European Technology Partnerships” provides cluster SMEs with access to European consortia and programmes.

The DGCIS also entered into individual agreements with clusters to provide financial support for international conferences, etc. French embassies’ trade missions and scientific departments have been mobilised for these actions and may also help clusters identify potential partners, learn about innovation systems in the countries concerned and organise official visits.

(December 2010)