In all the major fields of activity, companies (large groups, SMEs), research laboratories and universities are involved in a dynamic of industrial and scientific cooperation. Supporting these networks of players is a key feature of regional economic development.

In France there are 71 national competitiveness clusters; 12% of them are in this region.

A competitiveness cluster consolidates skills from industrial, research and higher education players, to focus on specialties in growth sectors to develop new markets and R&D projects. By joining them you will share the existing expertise, and financial aid.

The total government budget for financing competitiveness clusters has been set at a minimum of 1.5 billion euros over 3 years (2006 – 2008).

In addition to these 4 competitiveness clusters, others exist in the region : PACA marine cluster / Aeronautics cluster / Perfumes, flavours, taste and smell cluster / Emerging pathologies and orphan diseases cluster / European fruits and vegetables cluster.

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region is also involved in the creation of regional innovation and solidarity-based economic development programmes (PRIDES).

Capenergies

Development of wind, solar, biomass, hydraulic, fission and fusion energy.

Secured Communicating Solutions

International cluster Microelectronics, telecom, software and multimedia

OPTICS Photonics

Complex optical and imaging systems.

Risk management and land vulnerability

Euromediterranean cluster for risks (natural, industrial and urban) and cross-disciplinary technologies, in partnership with the Languedoc-Roussillon region

Trimatec

Trimatec applies innovative technologies used in the nuclear sector to other industrial sectors, with a particular focus on the environment and sustainable development.