Determinants of Creating a Cooperation Network in the Region of Podkarpacie

Abstract

Cooperation networks (clusters, circles, groups, concentrations) of enterprises are inherentelements of the present economic model. By creating an innovative regional policy, which isaimed at the long term goal of the creation of clusters, the process of increasing innovationin the region and the stimulation of particular enterprises is encouraged. The local system ofinformation is the cluster which should provide data on scientific achievements, the possibilitiesof introducing innovations as well as help to secure capital, information on promotionand marketing. The process of creating cooperation networks is significant not only for entrepreneursbut also for the authorities and self-government activists responsible for stimulatingthe processes of local and regional development. Within the period of European Union membership,development support programmes have emerged, which are based on structural fundsand assigned for not only clusters but also broader cooperative connections.By focusing on the region of Podkarpacie and gauging its competitiveness, an attempt hasbeen made to identify the determinants influencing this process of change. It mainly concernedthe creation of cooperation networks and other forms of co-action, whose implementation andorganisation in the region of Podkarpacie require active steps to be taken by those institutionsresponsible for regional development. The analysis performed on the basis of statistical datapublished by the Main Statistical Office covers 2004-2008. The assessment of this materialattempts to interpret the necessary conditions for growth of the cooperative network in theregion of Podkarpacie.