A cluster initiative to strengthen the assistive technology sector in San Sebastian, Spain

Introduction: San Sebastian' population is more heavily skewed towards seniors than other cities in Spain: 20% of its population is 65+ and 8.3% is made up by people with disabilities. In order to face this challenge, local authorities, together with research centres and private companies, have analysed the Assistive Technology (AT) sector with the goal of supporting emerging economic opportunities in this area. Main Content: The study has been carried out in the context of the FP7-funded support action TECFORLIFE, with the advice of international experts on AT and in cluster methodology. The output of the study includes: (a) a literature review and an analysis of the policy implications of local support of the AT sector in San Sebastian; (b) an analysis of the state-of-the-art of AT at the European and national level; (c) SWOT analysis; (d) interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders; and (e) the definition of the cluster scope an regional agenda. Results: This process has mobilized the local key stakeholders around this initiative and the local authorities have supported the creation the of the cluster initiative that has been officially announced on January 28 ^th 2011. Conclusion: Cluster initiatives play an important role in promoting the emergence of new research-based industries, and are a central part of industrial, regional and innovation policies. In contrast to other sectors, AT support needs to strongly include end-users as active stakeholders in the AT cluster. This initiative in San Sebastian aims to coordinate the RTD and innovation efforts with the involvement of companies, research centres and end users.