Implementation of the Cluster Policy within the Framework of the Spatial Development Strategy of the Territories of Ukraine

The article is devoted to the solution of an actual scientific problem – ensuring the effective implementation of the cluster policy within the framework of the strategy of spatial development of the territories of Ukraine. The purpose of the study is the theoretical generalization and systematization of existing scientific approaches to the interpretation of the concept of “cluster policy” in the system of the national economy; justification of the author's approach to determining the essence and content of this category. On the basis of a critical analysis of the literature, differences in interpretations of cluster policy (concepts, forms, methods), as well as the choice of applied means of implementing cluster policy (mechanisms, incentives, tools of influence) were revealed. It should be emphasized that, for the most part, scientists interpret cluster policy as a system of relations; activities of state authorities; cluster support activities; a number of political measures; a set of measures that contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the national economy; part of the industrial policy; component of regional policy; an element of science, technology and innovation policy; priority of regional economic policy; a separate policy with a clear strategy and budget; an element of economic development strategies. The author's interpretation of cluster policy is proposed as a system of state and public measures and mechanisms for supporting cluster structures and cluster initiatives, which ensure an increase in the level of competitiveness of regions, enterprises included in the cluster, the development of institutions that stimulate the creation of clusters and contribute to the activation of innovative activities. It was established that the key goal of cluster policy implementation is the creation of conditions for the formation and development of clusters as a basis for realizing the competitive advantages of the territories of economic districts, increasing the level of competitiveness of national and regional economies and the investment attractiveness of Ukraine. The main principles of cluster policy formation in Ukraine are multi-level policy formation; economic stimulation of network cooperation in clusters; organizational stimulation of network cooperation in clusters on the basis of public-private partnership; support of competitive clusters. For the effective implementation of cluster policy in Ukraine, it is necessary to: 1) include this type of policy in the list of national and regional priorities of socio-economic development and create an appropriate high-quality legislative and regulatory framework; 2) apply the concept of frugal innovations for successful organizational development of cluster formations; 3) strengthen international cooperation in order to stimulate the cluster's active participation in changing its institutional environment, promoting the spread of progressive ideas and technologies; 4) to form an appropriate information environment of the cluster with the aim of stimulating joint research projects, including with the participation of leading institutions of higher education and research institutions, promoting the improvement of the efficiency of communications and interaction in the cluster.