Cluster Development Initiative for the Petrochemical Industry of Cartagena

As an initial step, we worked with the Cartagena Chamber of Commerce to assess the viability of creating a Petrochemical and Plastics Cluster for the Cartagena and Bolívar Region. The positive result of this initial diagnosis became the first step to establishing a model for developing the Cluster institutions, strategy, and agenda involving the private sector and local organizations, which contributed with both economic and human capital.

In partnership with the Interdisciplinary Center for Development Studies of the University of the Andes in Colombia, we evaluated the competitiveness positioning of the cluster and the involvement of the private sector and other instances at the regional level to develop a regional value proposition, an institutional and governance framework, and an action plan developed with working groups in five priority areas: Business Environment Improvement, Business Strengthening, Supplier Development, Human Talent and Sustainability. For each of these areas, we identified low-hanging fruits to create momentum. We also developed a project portfolio and implementation plan with metrics monitored with a Balanced Scorecard by cluster companies and institutions.

We also developed stakeholders’ workshops to increase confidence and exchange experiences among local players and promoted a greater degree of sectoral knowledge and collaboration in selected areas for cluster development and sector growth.