%0 Report
        %A Nathan, Max
        %T Does Light Touch Cluster Policy Work? Evaluating the Tech City Programme
        %D 2019
        %8 2019 Sep
        %I Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)
        %C Bonn
        %7 IZA Discussion Paper
        %N 12631
        %U https://www.iza.org/publications/dp12631
        %X 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.
        %K economic development
%K technology
%K clusters
%K cities
%K synthetic controls