TY  - RPRT
        AU  - Nathan, Max
        TI  - Does Light Touch Cluster Policy Work? Evaluating the Tech City Programme
        PY  - 2019/Sep/
        PB  - Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)
        CY  - Bonn
        T2  - IZA Discussion Paper
        IS  - 12631
        UR  - https://www.iza.org/index.php/publications/dp12631
        AB  - Despite academic scepticism, cluster policies remain popular with policymakers. This paper evaluates the causal impact of a flagship UK technology cluster programme. I build a simple framework and identify effects using difference-in-differences and synthetic controls on rich microdata. I further test for timing, cross-space variation, scaling and churn channels. The policy grew and densified the cluster, but has had more mixed effects on tech firm productivity. I also find most policy 'effects' began before rollout, raising questions about the programme's added value.
        KW  - economic development
KW  - technology
KW  - clusters
KW  - cities
KW  - synthetic controls
        ER  -