ABSTRACT
Cluster policy in Hungary has been developed since the year 2000, with the launching of strategic programs highlighting the considerable role of clusters in improving competitiveness and innovativeness in the Hungarian economy. The Pole Programme was the first program for economic growth in Hungary with a systemic approach to clusters and financial resources earmarked for supporting their development. Until 2013, Hungary supported clusters at all stages of their development, including early stage start-up initiatives, which has led to the widespread proliferation of cluster structures in the country. The multi-level model of cluster development adopted by Hungary rests in the assumption that clusters at different levels of maturity need different forms of support. Face-to-face meetings are also accompanied by information and communications technology solutions, which may be treated as supplementing the first two roles of the CO.
