CLUSTER AS AN INNOVATIONORIENTED FORM OF AGGLOMERATION: SYNTHESIS OF FOREIGN EXPERIENCE

The article discusses the concepts of “Marshallian” and “Jacobian” proximity
effects. It establishes the basic differences between clusters and other forms of spatial
concentration of businesses. Agglomeration effects associated with cluster form of
organization of the regional economy are identified. The tools for assessing the factors
of geographic concentration, reflecting the influence of agglomeration effects, are
presented and examined. The degree of concentration and urbanization for cluster
groups of subjects of the Russian Federation is assessed.