Chambers of commerce can play an important economic development role in accelerating the emergence of new clusters. Clusters need a core. These cores have several dimensions. They must include participants (anchors) with access to a technology platform.
In addition, a core needs a "civic space": A place where participants can convene on a regular basis to define opportunities and align resources. A core also needs explicit or implicit (better explicit) rules to guide the behavior of participants in the cluster. These rules outline such elements as how intellectual property issues are handled when they arise.
Clusters also need supportive business development networks that can quickly align reources to take advantage of emerging business opportunities. These networks need to be fast, adaptive and open. They work best when they include investors who are comfortable with the technology platform and experienced entrepreneurs who understand how to integrate technology with emerging business models.
In addition, a core needs a "civic space": A place where participants can convene on a regular basis to define opportunities and align resources. A core also needs explicit or implicit (better explicit) rules to guide the behavior of participants in the cluster. These rules outline such elements as how intellectual property issues are handled when they arise.
Clusters also need supportive business development networks that can quickly align reources to take advantage of emerging business opportunities. These networks need to be fast, adaptive and open. They work best when they include investors who are comfortable with the technology platform and experienced entrepreneurs who understand how to integrate technology with emerging business models.
NC IDEA is a good example of an adaptive business development network. Civic leaders in Bend, OR announced this week that they are starting a similar network.