2025 2(49) 6

Organisational and economic mechanisms for the development of industrial cluster systems under digital transformation and smart specialisation

Arefieva O. V.,
Doctor of Economics, Professor,
ORCID https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5157-9970
е-maіl: lena-2009-19@ukr.net
State University “Kyiv Aviation Institute”, Kyiv

Citation Format
Arefieva, O. V. (2025). Organisational and economic mechanisms for the development of industrial cluster systems under digital transformation and smart specialisation. Vіsnyk ekonomіchnoі nauky Ukraіny, 2(49), 54-61. https://doi.org/10.37405/1729-7206.2025.2(49).54-61 

Language
 Ukrainian

Resume
The article substantiates the organisational and economic mechanisms that determine the development and resilience of industrial cluster systems in the context of digital transformation and smart specialisation. Industrial clusters are considered as network-based innovation ecosystems capable of ensuring technological modernisation, increasing productivity, and strengthening regional competitiveness. The research reveals the transformative impact of Industry 4.0–5.0 technologies, digital platforms, and data-driven management tools on cluster governance and value creation processes.
A comprehensive system for assessing cluster performance is proposed, combining productivity and innovation KPIs with indicators of regional impact, human capital development, smart specialisation alignment, and integration into European value chains. Special attention is paid to the role of SMEs, which function as drivers of technological flexibility, rapid innovation adoption, and internationalisation within cluster ecosystems. Their participation strengthens horizontal cooperation, accelerates knowledge diffusion, and expands the export and innovation capacity of regional economies.
The scientific novelty of the study lies in developing a multidimensional analytical framework for evaluating cluster potential and designing policy instruments that support digitalisation, innovation infrastructure, and interregional cooperation. The practical significance of the results is reflected in recommendations for public authorities, regional development agencies, cluster organisations, and SMEs on improving cluster policy, enhancing institutional capacity, and stimulating post-war economic modernisation.
The findings demonstrate that strengthening industrial clusters can accelerate Ukraine’s integration into European industrial networks, improve regional economic security, and create long-term competitive advantages in the global market. Future research should focus on digital cluster platforms, cross-border cluster partnerships, and the role of clusters in reconstruction strategies.

Keywords
industrial clusters; cluster system; smart specialisation; digital transformation; innovation ecosystem; SMEs; value chains.

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Full Text (.pdf)

Received: 03.11.2025
Accepted: 28.11.2025
Published: 29.12.2025