МЕХАНІЗМИ СТИМУЛЮВАННЯ СТАРТАП-АКТИВНОСТІ ЧЕРЕЗ РЕГІОНАЛЬНІ КЛАСТЕРИ В СИСТЕМІ ІННОВАЦІЙНОГО РОЗВИТКУ

Purpose. To determine the role of regional clusters in stimulating startup activity in Ukraine and to summarize their impact on the formation of regional innovation development, considering spatial transformations of the startup ecosystem, investment shifts, and the dynamics of key urban hubs. Methodology. The study employs induction and deduction, analysis and synthesis, comparative and structural-dynamic analysis, grouping, and observation methods. The results. The research identifies the dynamics of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem, the spatial features of the functioning of innovation hubs, and the factors driving their transformation during wartime challenges. It generalizes the mechanisms for stimulating startup activity within clusters, including institutional, financial, infrastructural, networking, educational, and investment components. Scientific novelty of the study lies in a comprehensive analytical generalization and structuring of mechanisms for stimulating startup activity within regional clusters, considering the spatial and wartime transformations of Ukraine’s startup ecosystem. Practical significance. The findings can be used to improve national and regional policies in the field of startup ecosystem development, to advance innovation infrastructure, and to increase regional investment attractiveness. The proposed approaches to strengthening cluster cooperation contribute to post-war economic recovery, the formation of new innovation hubs, and the enhancement of the competitiveness of Ukrainian regions in the global market.