Socially Oriented Clustering of a Region's Economy: Specifics and Principles

Abstract

The paper identifies key specific features of forming socially oriented clusters in economic space of regions. The author reveals differences between socially oriented clusters and classical industrial clusters, which arise from specifics of development resources, parameters of a cluster’s core, nature of relations with authorities, mechanisms for supporting and financing clusters. The paper pays particular attention to the principles of socially oriented clustering (priority of the quality of human capital, public-private partnership, assignment of powers, succession, realism, adaptability, goal setting, and relevance). The author concludes that under strengthening influence of anthropocentric models of economic develop? ment, the importance of clustering processes in socially important spheres is growing. Socially oriented clusters often have a distinct regional character and differ from traditional (industrial) clusters in a num? ber of features (nature of emergence, purposes, structure, etc.). The researcher justifies his approach to socially oriented clustering in a region treating it as a process of clusters’ formation and functioning, which contributes to creation of a single spatial environment of a region for developing components of human capital, innovations and ensuring self-development of a region. Active processes of socially oriented clustering can change the role of cities by transforming them from industrial complexes to mul? tifunctional centres. Conclusions and recommendations presented in the work can be useful for federal and regional authorities in designing and adopting strategic plans of regional development, planning spatial development of regions.