Thematic Clusters are part of our larger project called Innovation Center KOBAR.
Green Cluster – A community bringing together entrepreneurs, the public sector, and enthusiasts focused on sustainability and environmental conservation. Its main goal is to raise awareness and motivation to engage in green topics in Pärnumaa.
HR Cluster – A cluster that unites representatives of Pärnu County’s business organizations, major manufacturing and tourism companies, and educational institutions involved in workforce development. The aim is to find effective and flexible solutions for updating workforce competencies and addressing the shortage of key specialists.
Design Cluster – A network of Pärnumaa companies engaged in product design and/or design products, as well as broader entrepreneurs and individuals interested in the field of design. One of its most successful initiatives so far has been the Pärnu Design Day in 2023.
Marketing Cluster – A cluster aimed at bringing together marketing professionals in Pärnumaa and fostering more local collaboration.
Food Cluster – A continuation of the county-wide cooperation in the food sector that was launched in 2018 but later paused. The goal is to enhance the competitiveness of food producers.
Health Cluster – This cluster supports the strategic objective of the Pärnumaa 2035+ Health and Well-being Development Strategy, which focuses on helping children and young people (aged 0–26) grow into health-conscious, caring, and mentally strong adults who contribute meaningfully to society.
Community Cluster – A cluster supporting civic organizations in Pärnumaa, fostering conditions for grassroots initiatives and their development. It enhances social innovation and social entrepreneurship through various training programs, instructional materials, and mentorship programs.
Engineering Cluster – A cluster focused on finding practical and flexible solutions to address the shortage of engineering specialists by developing training programs and curricula tailored to the needs of businesses.
Creative Cluster – An evolution of the Culture Cluster community that previously operated under the Pärnumaa Development Center. Activities include regular networking events, discussions, panels, seminars, training sessions, study trips, mentoring for creative entrepreneurs, and mapping creative industry opportunities in Pärnumaa.
Silver Cluster – In 2010, the University of Tartu launched a University for Seniors to actively involve older generations in lifelong learning. In 2024–2026, an updated training program for seniors will be developed.
STEM/STEAM Network – The Pärnumaa STEM/STEAM Teachers’ Network is a regional collaboration platform that brings together teachers, school leaders, education specialists, and companies to develop a systematic and sustainable model for STEM/STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The network’s goal is to find practical solutions for increasing young people’s interest in science and technology and to support the development of practical and real-life skills through integrated and project-based learning.
Youth Entrepreneurship Development Network – Initiated by the Pärnumaa Development Center, this network connects teachers, students, and entrepreneurs. It enables mentoring in student company programs, guest visits to schools, and study trips to businesses. he network also supports annual regional fairs and competitions, with entrepreneurs involved as jury members and sponsors.
Financial Literacy Club – The goal of the Pärnumaa Financial Literacy Club is to bring together people who want to share knowledge and experiences while learning new skills. The club offers opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, listen to expert lectures, and hear personal finance success stories. Learning together makes financial topics more understandable and helps members achieve their financial goals.
Piesta Kuusikaru is a family-owned farm located in Estonia’s scenic Soomaa region, combining rich cultural heritage with modern apple product innovation. Established in 1868 and lovingly restored by the current owners, the farm produces a variety of artisanal apple-based products, including pure apple juice, spiced apple drink, shrub syrup, slowly fermented apple cider vinegar, and award-winning apple stroop. Every product reflects their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Beyond production, Piesta Kuusikaru Farm is dedicated to sustainable practices and the principles of the circular bioeconomy. Recognizing the potential of apple residues like pomace, seeds, and peels, the farm actively seeks innovative ways to valorize these by-products into high-value applications. This aligns with their vision of minimizing waste and unlocking new opportunities for environmental and economic sustainability.
Piesta Kuusikaru Farm is eager to collaborate with other similar producers in the region to address shared challenges and explore innovative solutions. By pooling resources, knowledge, and ideas, they aim to foster a stronger network of sustainable producers that collectively advance the circular bioeconomy and create meaningful impacts within the industry.