SYNERGY OF EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: PROSPECTS FOR THE FORMATION OF REGIONAL INNOVATION CLUSTERS

Abstract

Given global trends, the integration of universities into the business environment is becoming critically important for the formation of a knowledge economy. Ukrainian higher education institutions have the potential to become centers of innovation, but this requires systematic support from the state and business. The implementation of successful international clustering practices can be a catalyst for sustainable regional development and increased competitiveness of the country in the global market. The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the problems of cooperation between universities and business in the context of the creation and functioning of innovation clusters, hubs, and business incubators in Ukraine. The author focuses on the key barriers that hinder effective cooperation between the academic community and the business sector, in particular insufficient institutional interaction, the formality of cluster initiatives, limited funding for incubation structures, low levels of technology transfer, staff shortages, and the mismatch between educational programs and the needs of the modern labor market. It has been determined that the causes of these problems lie in the absence of a systematic state policy to support innovation, a weak regulatory framework, low levels of business participation in the formation of educational standards, and insufficient motivation for enterprises to invest in long-term educational and scientific projects. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of regional characteristics of clustering, where innovation platforms are often created for reporting purposes rather than for real development. The author emphasizes that in order to overcome these challenges, it is necessary to introduce effective mechanisms of public-private partnership, stimulate technology transfer, modernize educational programs in line with business needs, and ensure the sustainable development of the innovation ecosystem by attracting qualified personnel, investors, and strategic partners. The article is a relevant contribution to the discussion on modernizing the interaction between science, education, and business in the context of the transformation of the knowledge economy.