Details of the GINOP_PLUSZ-1.1.5-24 Tender and the Archenerg-Metál Cluster's Qualified History
This tender aims to improve the organizational operations and services of clusters with a significant operational history and extensive cooperation experience. It's important to note that obtaining cluster qualification does not provide direct financial support for the Cluster's operations but rather serves as a recognition that offers a serious advantage in other tenders.
The tender was open to Hungarian-based economic entities with double-entry bookkeeping, provided that the cluster management organization holds more than 50% ownership in the cluster, and the cluster has a minimum of 15 members. The support is non-refundable, with a 100% intensity, but the amount is symbolic (0-1 HUF), as the primary goal is to achieve the qualification itself.
As a result of meeting these criteria, the Archenerg-Metál Cluster, formerly known as the ArchEnerg International Renewable Energy and Construction Innovation Cluster, now holds accredited innovation cluster qualification. The original ArchEnerg Cluster was founded in 2007, and thanks to its continuous successful operation and adherence to the tender conditions, it has been awarded this certificate four times since then. Its excellence was further enhanced on the international stage when the Archenerg Cluster became the first in Hungary to receive the highest, gold-level certification from the European Cluster Excellence Initiative (ECEI) in 2015, which it renewed in 2019. The expansion of the cluster's activities and the addition of "Metál" stemmed from its merger with the Sárrét Metál Cluster, which also held accreditation and was established in 2009. This merger further contributed to the cluster's broader recognition and strengthened its capabilities.
What Does Industry Cluster Qualification Mean?
Industry cluster qualification is an official recognition that the Cluster operates in an organized and efficient manner, possesses a significant history and experience, and serves strategic goals. This means it is capable of fostering innovation collaborations, is potentially relevant at an international level, and contributes to economic performance. This qualification is a guarantee of quality that provides concrete, measurable advantages not only for the Cluster but also for all its member companies in increasing their competitiveness and market presence.
These are the most important points, which we also highlight for members from the perspective of tenders:
- Organized and efficient operation: It has a well-structured management capable of coordinating the activities of its members.
- Significant history and experience: It's not newly formed but has a proven track record in its operations and in cooperation among members.
- Serves strategic goals: It aligns with the national cluster development strategy and contributes to increasing the competitiveness of the given industry or our region.
- Innovation potential: It is capable of fostering research, development, and innovation collaborations among members, even involving academic and industrial partners.
- Potentially relevant at an international level: Its goal is for Hungarian clusters to become visible and competitive internationally.
- Contributes to economic performance: The member companies collectively have significant revenue, export performance, and employment data.
What are the Benefits for Archenerg-Metál Cluster Members?
For the member companies of the Archenerg-Metál Cluster, this industry qualification represents a significant competitive advantage in tenders announced under the GINOP Plusz framework. Qualified cluster members are eligible for significant bonus points during the tender evaluation process, and in some cases, can expect a higher non-refundable grant intensity.
This advantageous position is particularly important for cluster-focused projects that better align with the GINOP Plusz program's priorities. Cluster membership also strengthens the credibility and prestige of businesses, increasing trust among potential partners and investors. Our Cluster Management organization continuously provides up-to-date information and expert assistance in preparing tenders, increasing the chances of successful applications. Finally, cluster membership is fundamentally based on cooperation and innovation, which encourages joint research and development projects and knowledge sharing, contributing to the long-term competitiveness of member companies.
The Archenerg-Metál Cluster is committed to leveraging this qualification to the maximum benefit of its member companies, thereby strengthening our collective competitiveness and contributing to the economic development of the region.