NCA - European Industry Strategy - an NCA guide to help you position yourself within the ecosystems

The National Cluster Association has prepared a document for its members that provides basic information about the European Industrial Strategy and serves as a guide for members of the National Cluster Association in identifying their role within the relevant industrial ecosystem.

The European Industrial Strategy, first presented by the European Commission in March 2020, was designed to support the twin transition—Europe’s shift towards a greener and more digital economy. Its objectives are to strengthen the EU’s global competitiveness, enhance strategic autonomy, and create a resilient and sustainable industrial environment.

In light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the strategy was updated in May 2021 to address new challenges and accelerate economic recovery. This update builds on existing efforts, outlines key priorities and lessons learned, and reinforces the EU’s commitment to sustainability, digital transformation, and resilience.

A fundamental aspect of the strategy is the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are a key driving force of innovation and economic growth across all industrial ecosystems. To support them, the EU has introduced measures to reduce regulatory burdens, strengthen the single market, reduce supply chain dependencies, and facilitate the green and digital transition. In addition, targeted initiatives address SME resilience, tackle late payments, and support solvency.

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The strategy is structured around seven key areas of action**:

• Strengthening the Single Market
• Ensuring a level playing field on a global scale
• Supporting the industry’s transition to climate neutrality
• Promoting the circular economy
• Fostering industrial innovation
• Strengthening skills development
• Investing in infrastructure

At the heart of the strategy are 14 industrial ecosystems that encompass all stakeholders across the value chain—from startups to large corporations, as well as academia, research institutions, service providers, and suppliers. These ecosystems represent the various economic sectors driving industrial transformation in Europe:

• Construction
• Digital Industry
• Health
• Agri-Food Industry
• Renewable Energy
• Energy-Intensive Industries
• Mobility, Transport and Automotive
• Electronics
• Textile Industry
• Aerospace & Defence
• Cultural and Creative Industries
• Tourism
• Proximity and Social Economy
• Retail

The Industrial Strategy places EU industry at the forefront of global change, ensuring it remains competitive, innovative, and resilient. By supporting sustainability, technological leadership, and economic autonomy, the EU is laying the foundation for a stronger, greener, and more digital future.

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* https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/industry/strategy_en

** https://clustercollaboration.eu/in-focus/industrial-ecosystems

European Industry Strategy - an NCA guide to help you position yourself within the ecosystems

More than 1,500 clusters operate across over 200 regions in the EU-27, playing a key role within the 14 EU Industrial Ecosystems. These ecosystems cover critical sectors such as healthcare, mobility, renewable energy, and advanced materials, contributing to Europe’s strategic autonomy.

NCA GUIDE - EUROPEAN INDUSTRY STRATEGY