The Impact Of Clustering Indicators Based on Cluster Actors on Sustainable Local Development: An Application in Tra1 Region Provinces

Clustering is one of the fundamental strategies contributing to Sustainable Local Development (SLD). This study aims to determine the effects of cluster indicators related to cluster actors [suppliers/producers (SUPRO), sellers/consumers (SELCON), supporting/intermediary institutions (SUPINT), and public and stakeholder support (PUBIND)] on the economic, social, and environmental indicators of SLD in the provinces of Erzurum, Erzincan, and Bayburt in the TRA1 Region, one of Turkey's underdeveloped sub-regions. For this purpose, a survey-based field study was conducted on firms belonging to activity sectors grouped according to NACE Rev.2 codes, and regression estimations were made with the obtained data. According to the regression analysis results, cluster actors of different sizes and directions have an impact on the economic, social, and environmental indicators of SLD, and the most influential cluster actor is SUPINT. Furthermore, based on the results of the multiple regression analysis, it was determined that a cluster to be established in Erzurum Province would be suitable in terms of SLD. Successful publicly funded cluster formations in the TRA1 region will contribute both to achieving social security and reducing income disparities between provinces and regions.