Better together: Three data-backed reasons why clustered startups perform better
Faster growth and higher resilience are among the measurable advantages for startups working in clusters.
At first glance, clusters can look like non-essential soft infrastructure; valuable for networking and visibility, but hard to measure in real business outcomes.
But the facts support the clustered mindset. Indicators such as wages, growth and survivability indicate that startups and SMEs working in clusters are, simply put, more succesful.
So, what exactly is it about clusters that creates these measurable differences?
#1: Increased Access
This is the big one. Clusters shorten the path from innovation to market by connecting companies directly with customers, pilot partners, and value-chain actors.
A Swedish study has even found that “…firms located in strong clusters create more jobs, higher tax payments and higher wages to employees”.
The SMEBeyond project illustrates this point: By bringing together six ICN member clusters across the South Baltic region, the project enables SMEs to access cross-border matchmaking.
This reduces the time to first pilots, reference customers, and strategic partnerships — particularly in complex cleantech markets.
#2: Higher credibility
Being part of a recognised cluster increases trust. Customers, investors, and public actors are more likely to engage with companies embedded in established innovation ecosystems.
And recent data from ICN-member Clean indicates a +40% average increase in survival rate among clustered startups having joined the accelerator program Beyond Beta.
Through cluster-led initiatives, startups gain visibility and legitimacy by operating within a coordinated framework.
Another such example is the Every1 project, which positions participators closer to the regulatory processes that shape Europe’s digital energy transition. This proximity strengthens credibility in a regulated market where trust is essential.
#3: knowledge Sharing
Clusters accelerate scaling by turning individual experience into shared knowledge. Instead of each company learning the same lessons through trial and error, clusters create structured spaces where market insight, regulatory understanding, and growth strategies are exchanged openly and efficiently.
The shared strategies make a difference: A report by the American Brookings Institution found that clustered clean energy establishments saw faster growth.
A current example of how clusters share expertise is ICN member Clean’s February 26 event How to scale your business in Northern Germany. The webinar provides inspiration and practical insights on how to enter the German market – shared by companies that have already begun the journey.
Looking to go further?
Clusters are mechanisms for growth — turning shared networks, credibility, and knowledge into faster scaling and higher resilience for cleantech companies.
Read on to dive deeper into how clusters can help your organisation survive and thrive:
Explore how market readiness shapes international success in Know the markets: Is your cleantech start-up ready to cross borders?
Get practical insight into funding opportunities in Five major EU funding programmes – and what your application needs to reach them.