About Cluster
Wielkopolska ICT Cluster is a triple helix body in the form of a legally registered association. It was founded in 2008 by Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center (Polish Academy of Science), Poznan City Hall and ICT companies from the region.
According to Deloitte benchmarking of Polish clusters, Wielkopolska ICT CLuster is "The leading ICT cluster in Poland". NGPexcellence Benchmarking by VDI/VDE has verified that Wielkopolska ICT Cluster has the highest level of R&D; engagement in cluster activities Europewide. In 2011 European Cluster Excellence Initiative awarded Wklaster Bronze Label (highest possible) for excellence in cluster management.
The cluster creation was supported by the project “Wielkopolska ICT Research-Driven Cluster” in the 2008-2010 edition of FP7 Regions of Knowledge. The project resulted in a detailed competence map of cluster members.
Now, the cluster consists of three types of ICT-oriented entities: over 50 companies including state-owned energy management agency, 3 R&Ds; and a local government. It has a variety of funding sources, including member fees and is becoming self-sustainable. Cluster members enriched the region’s strategy “Poznan 2030” by a strategic programme on ICT which consists of 8 tasks in line with the European Digital Agenda.
The cluster’s R&D; members completed numerous applied research ICT projects (over 50 FP projects, several as coordinator).
The cluster’s companies have commercial interest in cluster operation. Companies implement energy efficient communication networks, mobile and fixed applications and industry management solutions. They have high expertise in e-government, medical and banking areas and smart grid projects, also in terms of auditing and market analysis. Companies cooperate with R&Ds; in terms of mutual trainings, internships, audits. Recently first research-driven commercial projects were launched.
Poznan City Hall runs numerous ecology-oriented and e-government activities, such as the XIV Global UN Climate Conference in 2008 or digitization and opening of administrative data resources. The city realizes and co-finances deployment of its “Poznan 2030” strategy in line with European Digital Agenda. Thanks to regularly conducted research on standards of living (every 2 years) the city provides reliable indicators of change in all aspects of the region's development.
The cluster is present on the international scene, running events and projects in such countries as: USA, China, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, Georgia, Croatia, Denmark, and elsewhere.