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the CEE-ClusterNetwork is one of several initiatives concerning cluster development within Europe, an FP6 project focused mainly on future innovation and cluster policy. One aim is also the mobilisation and support of regional innovation policy actors to carry out and design co-operation activities together with other competent public authorities.

Thus, certain correlation with the CITT project is clearly visible. Another connection is the geographical focus, as the consortium of Central and Eastern Europe cover parts of Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Poland and Italy.

I participated at the cross-border workshop for cluster managers of this project in Vienna in September last year. During this interesting meeting I had the possibilities to get familiar with the project and for example participate at the brain storming sessions on project ideas, such as for example cluster academy, strategy for twin cluster, joint marketing activities related to cluster building.

Currently, the CEE-ClusterNetwork is conducting the first large scale survey on the skills and training needs of European cluster managers. The CEE-ClusterNetwork runs this under the PRO INNO Europe initiative established by DG Enterprise and Industry at the European Commission. I would like to invite you to participate at this survey so that you can yourself actively participate at setting up the future education for cluster managers. It takes about 20 minutes of your time.

As cluster management is a relatively new profession a clear common job profile has not yet been developed, sometimes forcing cluster managers to operate without a clear role definition. This survey is aimed at proceeding towards a common job profile and preparing the ground for future courses on a European scale.

The questionnaire may also be useful for your personal assessment and reflection on your skills and training needs. Your participation is important: don’t forget that this survey is completed by cluster managers, for cluster managers. Click here to start the questionnaire.

Please complete it by October 10^th 2008. Your answers will be kept confidential and you will be informed about the results of the survey analysis.