Innovative agroclusters as a form of integration scientific and educational activities and business

The purpose of the article is to analyze the retrospective of the emergence, formation and development of cluster associations, their essence and varieties, choose the model of cluster interaction optimal for the effective functioning of inter-regional scientific centers of the NAAS. Research methods. The general scientific methods of empirical research are applied: comparative-historical and monographic, with the help of which knowledge of various stages of the development of clustering processes is achieved, individual levels of cluster development are discovered and compared, changes that have occurred and trends are identified; in this case, cognitive operations of comparison and description are used; the analysis method revealed the forms of direct and feedback between all participants in the cluster association; the synthesis method made it possible to combine the components of the process of forming an innovative cluster into a single whole; using a systematic approach, we studied the internal and external properties of cluster structures, functional relationships and the behavior of members of the association in a competitive environment; abstraction allowed avoiding a number of stereotypes regarding the formation of the structure of innovative clusters and determining their purpose at the regional level and at the same time highlight the essential properties that are the basis for the integration of the new association. Research results. The genesis and evolution of cluster strategies of economic development are analyzed. The innovative orientation of cluster associations and their role in the sustainable development of the regions is disclosed. The world experience of effective comprehensive application of clusters and their state support is presented. The historical stages of economic integration and the search for cluster approaches in the agroindustrial complex of Ukraine are highlighted. A cluster form of organizing integrated scientific and innovative support for regional development is proposed. Scientific novelty. The conceptual framework for the integration of agricultural science, education, and business has been developed with a view to the integrated use of the natural resource and socio-economic potential of the agricultural sector of the region, the creation of conditions for the sustainable development of rural areas and all cluster participants with an emphasis on ensuring long-term and effective cooperation. Practical significance. The proposals on the formation of the functional structure and determination of the development goals of the scientific and innovative cluster “Northern Interregional Scientific Center” have been developed. Tabl.: 1. Figs.: 1. Refs.: 19.