Across the Mediterranean, clusters are striving to modernize, scale, and join the international stage. Yet, without access to new markets, updated knowledge, and peer-to-peer exchange, many risk being left behind.
To change this, the Cluster Connect initiative—funded by the European Union under the EuroMed Clusters Forward program and coordinated by ANIMA Investment Network—has been set in motion. Berytech, as the regional implementing partner, is enabling clusters in the MENA region to connect with their European counterparts, designing and facilitating twinning missions that open new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
These missions are more than visits. They are structured journeys: from needs assessments and virtual exchanges to immersive study trips where clusters work directly with their hosts. Each step is designed to ensure practical outcomes, long-term collaboration, and stronger cluster ecosystems back home.
Stories of Collaboration and Success
Tunisia – Cluster Huile d’Olive du Nord Ouest
Host: Italy – EuroMed Group
Focus: Gourmet olive oil production and export market entry
In the olive groves of north-western Tunisia, tradition met opportunity. Through Cluster Connect, the cluster explored Italian expertise in gourmet production, visiting olive mills and engaging with local authorities in Bari on potential trade partnerships. They returned with three collaborations in motion and a clear export strategy—bridging Tunisian production with European demand.
Palestine – Hebron Leather and Shoe Cluster (HLSC)
Host: Spain – Leather Cluster Barcelona
Focus: Sustainability and access to finance
Leatherworking is Hebron’s legacy, but the future lies in greener practices and stronger financing models. In Barcelona, the HLSC participated in workshops on sustainable production and engaged directly with Spanish peers. The mission produced a signed Memorandum of Understanding and three new international connections, formalizing a path to more sustainable and competitive leather goods.
Morocco – Cluster Electrique, Electronique, et Mecatronique du Maroc (CE3M)
Host: France – Team Henri Fabre
Focus: Industry 4.0 and digital transformation
Morocco’s CE3M cluster used its mission to dive into the future of manufacturing. From hands-on training in IoT and 3D printing to preparing a national Industry 4.0 forum, the experience gave the cluster both the tools and the confidence to lead digital transformation locally. By the end, three new services were launched, supported by eight fresh partnerships with European counterparts.
Morocco – Moroccan Denim and Fashion Cluster (MDFC)
Host: Spain – MODACC
Focus: Eco-design and circular fashion
The MDFC cluster explored Catalonia’s textile ecosystem, immersing itself in models of eco-design and sustainable innovation. These encounters sparked three new project proposals and strategies for improved governance and incubation, paving the way for Moroccan fashion to play a larger role in the global shift toward circular textiles.
Egypt – Egyptian Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC)
Host: Spain – AMEC
Focus: Governance, logistics, and innovation
EREC’s mission was about building stronger systems inside the cluster and introducing sustainable solutions for its members. Visits to DFactory, EURECAT, and Barcelona Port offered insights into green innovation and smart logistics. The mission led to the creation of three new services and the drafting of a partnership with PIMEC, strengthening Egypt’s role in sustainable industrial practices.
Morocco – Cluster Menara
Host: Netherlands – Eco System Navigators
Focus: Certification and market access
In the Netherlands, Menara learned how Dutch SMEs leverage certification and flexible models to penetrate new markets. Through strategic meetings with funders and companies, the cluster returned with three new services, five improved offerings, and ten active collaborations. The mission also helped define three strategic plans to guide its growth in agrifood and cosmetics sectors.
Tunisia – Cluster Mecatronic Tunisie (CMT)
Host: Germany – WFG Wirtschaftsförderung Raum Heilbronn GmbH
Focus: Quality management and CRM development
CMT’s mission focused on improving internal cluster processes to better serve its members. With German support, they enhanced their CRM system and engaged with leading European clusters and the University of Heilbronn. Four new connections and two collaborations emerged from this mission, along with a new strategy for performance analysis and member engagement.
Berytech as an Enabler
Behind every mission, Berytech has played a critical role: identifying cluster needs, designing tailored action plans, matching clusters with the right hosts, and ensuring that the outcomes go beyond meetings to become lasting strategies and partnerships.
By acting as an enabler, Berytech is ensuring that clusters not only connect but also grow, innovate, and compete internationally.
Building a Shared Future
The first wave of Cluster Connect missions has demonstrated the power of twinning: practical services upgraded, new collaborations forged, and strategies reshaped for sustainability and competitiveness.
This is proof that when clusters connect, entire economies move forward. We’re not done yet. Stay tuned for what’s next, and if you’re ready to do business, we’re only an email away: jessica.hajjar@berytech.org.
