A cluster is a group of companies, research institutions, training providers and other organisations located in the same region and working in related fields, which both compete and cooperate with each other. Many clusters are run by a cluster organisation. This body brings the members together, organises joint projects and offers services such as training, matchmaking and help with funding. Because cluster organisations work closely with both companies and the wider innovation community, they are well placed to link new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) with practical business opportunities.

The next EU Clusters Talk looks at how they can do this. The talks are a regular online webinar series run by the European Cluster Collaboration Platform on behalf of the European Commission. On 28 October, cluster managers, researchers and innovation leaders will share what is working and what is not as AI changes European industry.

The discussion covers three areas. The first is finding viable use cases, meaning concrete tasks in which AI brings real value to a company. The second is opening access to expertise and investment. The third is redesigning how members work in a digital-first environment.

The topic is especially relevant for machinery and automation SMEs that do not have their own AI team. For them, the local cluster is often the first point of contact, and the session shows what kinds of support they can ask for. Participation is free, but registration is required.

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