Technology led businesses which join cluster groups of related companies enjoy a comparative advantage in the three key areas of business productivity, innovation and knowledge transfer, and market awareness.

Now more ICT businesses are being urged to join their local ICT Cluster group, which offers an open exchange of knowledge, information and business opportunities.

www.lcictclusters.org was been created by Lancaster University’s InfoLab21 and Business Link Northwest to provide a unique central resource for the region’s technology led businesses.

As ICT supports almost all sectors of the economy, the creation of successful cluster groups benefits the regional economy as a whole.

Individual companies contribute to the clustering effect by their relationship with suppliers and customers and by using their skills in networking and building alliances with other companies.

The Clusters also provide benefits for local businesses and helps to promote Lancashire & Cumbria as a centre of excellence for ICT.

Mike Wilson, Digital and Creative Sector team leader at Business Link Northwest said: “Given the current economic climate, it’s critical that businesses capitalise on every opportunity to help them thrive. The digital and creative sector faces some unique challenges, and the networking groups provide a forum to discuss issues, solutions and opportunities with local like-minded companies. I’d urge everyone operating in the digital and creative sector in the Northwest to visit the new ICT Cluster Groups site at www.lcictcluster.org and find out more about how they can benefit from joining up.”

The clusters were formed by Lancaster University’s InfoLab21 and partners, including Business Link, local authorities and the Lancashire Economic Partnership. Their aim is to bring together the expertise and creativity of ICT businesses from across Lancashire and Cumbria and provide a unique place where they can come together to learn, share and collaborate.

Six Cluster Groups in the region are now set up and running and meet regularly. The current groups are: Lancaster, Preston, West Lancashire, Blackpool & Fylde, East Lancashire and Kendal.

Cluster groups provide their members with support and information on various topics, including Exploiting Technology, Skills & Staffing Issues, Business support, Business Opportunities and Business Growth.

Lancashire & Cumbria ICT Clusters are supported by Business Link Northwest, local Councils and the Lancashire Economic Partnership.