As an initial step, we partnered with the Cartagena Chamber of Commerce to assess the viability of establishing a Petrochemical and Plastics Cluster in the Cartagena and Bolívar region. The positive outcome of this diagnostic phase laid the groundwork for creating a model to guide the development of the cluster’s institutions, strategy, and agenda, driven by active participation from the private sector and local organizations contributing both economic and human capital.
In collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Center for Development Studies at the University of the Andes in Colombia, we evaluated the cluster’s competitiveness positioning and the degree of private sector and regional stakeholder involvement. Together, we developed a regional value proposition, an institutional and governance framework, and an action plan through working groups focused on five priority areas: Business Environment Improvement, Business Strengthening, Supplier Development, Human Talent, and Sustainability. In each area, we identified “low-hanging fruits” to build early momentum.
We also created a project portfolio and implementation plan, complete with metrics tracked using a Balanced Scorecard by cluster companies and institutions. To deepen collaboration, we facilitated stakeholder workshops aimed at building trust, sharing experiences, and expanding sector-specific knowledge to support cluster development and long-term growth.
