Revitalization of Zabłocie in Kraków: Innovation Cluster as One of the Elements of District Development

Abstract

Zabłocie is one of the most dynamically developing districts of Kraków. The aim of this article is to present the role of the Innovation Cluster in the revitalization of Zabłocie. The article discusses the historical background of the Zabłocie district and examines how the Innovation Cluster can influence its revitalization process. The article also analyzes the possible challenges associated with the implementation of the Innovation Cluster. Key issues include the adaptation of old industrial buildings to new functions, the need for infrastructure investment, and the risk posed by insufficient cooperation between the public and private sectors. In the context of the implementation of the Zabłocie cluster, investment management has played an important role. By integrating BIM technology with a cloud-based collaboration environment, decision-making processes were streamlined at every stage of construction. The cluster has the potential to become a catalyst for the transformation of Zabłocie. It serves as an example of sustainable development, where technological innovation, creative industries, and social responsibility align with infrastructure improvement and enhancing the quality of life in the urban environment.

1. Introduction

Monuments and their preservation constitute one of the key aspects of safeguarding cultural identity and national heritage. The primary objective of historic building renovation is to restore their original state, prevent further degradation, and protect the historical substance of the structure [1]. However, significant challenges arise regarding the energy efficiency of historic buildings, which—especially in the context of long-term operation—remains a difficult issue to address [2]. In addition, there are urban areas that, while not possessing high historical value in terms of architecture, once played a crucial role in the development of cities. Frequently, such buildings—often left abandoned after the collapse of large state-owned enterprises—are now rapidly degrading. These areas are typically located in functionally attractive parts of the urban fabric. Therefore, redeveloping such buildings and assigning them new functions represents a solution that combines the preservation of the area’s historical character with the introduction of modern uses relevant to regional development [3]. International examples of post-industrial area revitalization show that introducing new functions into existing urban structures can yield positive results [4].

The revitalization of historic urban areas is one of the key urban planning processes aimed at transforming degraded areas into vibrant, dynamic, and functional spaces that meet modern social, economic, and environmental needs. Kraków faces challenges in transforming industrial and post-industrial areas into modern urban districts while preserving their historic character. Zabłocie, which is one such district, is at the center of this revitalization process (Figure 1) [5,6].

Zabłocie is one of the most dynamically developing districts in Kraków, whose revitalization is an example of a complex process combining urban, social, and economic aspects. Zabłocie, with its historical industrial heritage (Figure 2), located near the city center, is becoming one of the key areas where investments in the modernization of urban space, development of the creative sector, 4.0 industries, and technological innovation are being implemented.

The purpose of this article is to present one of the key investments underway in Zabłocie and its role as an element supporting the development process of the district, which, as a result of revitalization, has a chance to become one of the leading innovation areas in Kraków. An Innovation Cluster, understood as a cooperation between businesses, R&D institutions, as well as the public sector, is not only a mechanism for supporting technology development, but is also a catalyst for socio-economic transformation, contributing to the creation of modern jobs and space for creative businesses [7,8]. Zabłocie, with its historical heritage, poses a specific challenge in the revitalization process, which requires finding a balance between modernity and preserving cultural values.

This paper addresses a significant research gap concerning the role of Innovation Clusters in revitalizing post-industrial urban districts. Despite the growing interest in urban innovation ecosystems, there is a lack of in-depth case studies focused on local European contexts like Zabłocie. By examining the Zabłocie district in Kraków, we aim to contribute original empirical insight into how Socio-Economic Innovation Clusters operate as transformation catalysts in such environments [9,10].

2. The Urban and Historical Context of the Zabłocie District

Zabłocie is a district of Kraków whose history is closely linked to the city’s industrial development in the 19th and 20th centuries. Initially, the area was primarily an industrial area where numerous factories developed, including textile, metal, and chemical factories. In the interwar period and during the communist era, Zabłocie became one of Kraków’s most important industrial centers, which influenced the character of the neighborhood. With the decline of industry at the end of the 20th century, the area gradually lost its importance, and many manufacturing plants closed or degraded [5,6].

As a result of the process of urbanization and deindustrialization, Zabłocie has become a neglected area, with numerous wastelands, post-industrial buildings in a poor state of repair, and a lack of adequate urban infrastructure. The revitalization of this district has become essential to bring it back to life, turning it into a modern, functional space that can meet the demands of a modern city.

Zabłocie is near the center of Kraków, which makes it an area with great development potential. It is well connected to the rest of the city, thanks to its proximity to major thoroughfares such as Dietla Street, as well as to nearby public transportation hubs. However, due to the large number of properties in private hands and the post-industrial nature of the district, revitalization requires coordinated action by the local government, private investors, and other stakeholders.

The historical context of Zabłocie is inextricably linked to its industrial heritage. Many of the district’s residents worked in industrial plants, which shaped the social and economic character of the area. Modern revitalization must take into account not only the needs of the residents but also respect the cultural and industrial heritage. It is worth noting that many post-industrial buildings have architectural value and are an integral part of the city’s history. Therefore, one of the key elements of the revitalization process in Zabłocie is an attempt to preserve these buildings and adapt them to new functions that meet modern requirements.

Zabłocie was first mentioned in the 14th century, when the area was mainly agricultural land and meadows located on the banks of the Vistula River. With the development of Kraków in the 18th century, Zabłocie began to gain importance as an economic base for the city, and the construction of the Podgorski Bridge in the early 19th century accelerated the urbanization of the area. In the 19th century, the first major industrial plants were established in Zabłocie, including Schindler’s Factory, which played an important role during World War II. For decades, the area was characterized by intensive economic activity; however, after the political transformation in 1989, many factories were closed, which led to the degradation of the entire area.

Historically, the spatial development of Zabłocie was shaped by key figures such as Roman Bandurski and Józef Gałęzowski, who played a role in early industrial urban planning in Kraków. During the interwar and post-war periods, the area was affected by utilitarian planning approaches that prioritized industrial function over urban integration. These choices, although functional at the time, contributed to later spatial fragmentation and limited infrastructure connectivity, which remain challenges in contemporary revitalization efforts [11].

Today’s Zabłocie combines tradition with modernity. Numerous initiatives have been undertaken as part of the revitalization, such as the construction of cultural centers, the adaptation of former industrial buildings into office and residential spaces, and the development of green spaces that improve the quality of life for residents. Zabłocie is now becoming a symbol of the rebirth of urban space by using historical potential and modern urban planning concepts [1,2].

One of the most interesting buildings that underwent extensive reconstruction and adaptation to new functions was the now defunct old power plant. The revitalization of the old buildings resulted in a facility that provides the city with a multifunctional cultural institution called Cricoteka—Center for the Documentation of Cantor’s Art (Figure 3).

One of the most important symbols of Zabłocie remains the Emalia Factory, whose history inspired the creation of the Schindler Museum with a permanent exhibition “Krakow—the time of occupation 1939–1945” (the owner of the factory during World War II, who saved Jews from extermination), attracting tourists from all over the world (Figure 4).

Meanwhile, one of the latest developments aimed at the neighborhood’s revitalization process is the Innovation Cluster [10,11,12]. The comprehensive revitalization of Zabłocie is not only a matter of improving the quality of life of residents and users of this space, but also of creating new economic opportunities. The area, thanks to its location and development potential, is becoming attractive to entrepreneurs, especially in the new technology, creative industries and innovation sectors. In this context, the Innovation Cluster can be an important part of the transformation of this district, creating modern spaces for startups, technology companies and research and development organizations.

3. Innovation Cluster as One of the Key Investments in the Revitalization Process of Zabłocie District

3.1. Methodology

The methodological approach of this study is based on a case study strategy, combining qualitative data collection with contextual urban analysis. Data sources include municipal planning documents, architectural and construction documentation, interviews with project stakeholders, and direct field observations conducted between 2022 and 2024. The analysis focuses on institutional cooperation, implementation processes, and spatial-functional transformation observed in cluster development. Although qualitative case study methodology is less commonly applied in urban planning research, it enables an in-depth analysis of complex socio-spatial systems, especially in transitional contexts. The selection of this approach was guided by the need to integrate empirical observations, stakeholder narratives, and documentary evidence to capture the multidimensional nature of the Zabłocie transformation. As Flyvbjerg (2006) [13] argues, well-selected case studies can contribute significantly to theory building, particularly when they highlight exceptional or instructive examples.

3.2. Genesis of the Idea of Creating a Cluster

An Innovation Cluster should be understood as a structure of cooperation between enterprises, research, and development institutions and public sector organizations. Innovation Clusters are becoming an increasingly important element in the development of a knowledge-based economy, fostering technology transfer, supporting startups and creating modern jobs [13,14,15]. Regarding the Cluster, which was carried out on behalf of the City of Kraków by Mostostal Warsaw, the Cluster was designed to fulfill a number of functions, which are summarized in Figure 5.

The idea to create the Zabłocie 20.22. Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster was born because of public consultations conducted in 2016 as part of the Urban Revitalization Program of Kraków. The initiative was a response to the needs of the local community, as expressed by residents and citizens of Kraków. It was noted that despite the rapid development of the district, Zabłocie still struggles with a shortage of socio-economic infrastructure that could support the local community and entrepreneurship [11].

Despite the participatory nature of the project’s origins, challenges in public–private cooperation have emerged during implementation. For example, the delay in appointing a permanent operator for Building A revealed difficulties in aligning municipal objectives with expectations from the private sector. Such issues are not unique to Zabłocie. Similar revitalization projects, such as HafenCity in Hamburg or the Mediaspree district in Berlin, have demonstrated the need for clear governance frameworks and contractual models that ensure shared accountability, financial transparency, and long-term operational responsibility.

The main objective of the Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster Zabłocie 20.22 was to improve access to services offered by social organizations and support entrepreneurship, including social entrepreneurship. The project was intended to create conditions conducive to the social and professional inclusion of residents through the creation of a multifunctional innovation center. This center is designed to stimulate social, civic, and professional activity, integrating diverse social groups and supporting their development. The most important goals of the Zabłocie Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster 20.22 are summarized in

Table 1. Specific objectives of the Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster Zabłocie 20.22.

Specific Objective	Description
Activation of civil society	The cluster is expected to engage residents and representatives of the non-governmental sector in civil society activities, contributing to the development of the local community.
Increase access to advanced social services	Through consulting, training and educational activities, the cluster supports the development of residents’ key competencies, empowering them in the labor market and in social life.
Support for grassroots initiatives	The initiative supports and animates the activity of residents, enabling the implementation of their ideas and strengthening cooperation at the local level.
Capacity development of community organizations	The cluster aims to strengthen NGOs, offering them support in developing their activities and building sustainable structures.
Reduction of social exclusion	The cluster’s activities focus on reducing the level of social exclusion and improving social cohesion in Kraków.
Networking and experience sharing	By building cooperative ties, the cluster creates space for the exchange of knowledge and the joint search for innovative solutions.
Support for entrepreneurship and start-ups	The cluster offers support for businesses in the early stages of development, especially among young, educated people, and promotes the creation of new jobs.
Promoting social entrepreneurship	As part of the cluster’s activities, it is planned to promote the economization of the non-governmental sector through the development of non-governmental organizations doing business.
Strengthening cooperation with the research and development (R&D) sector	One of the goals of the cluster is to strengthen cooperation between businesses and research and development units to foster innovation.
Development of the business environment	Creating a friendly environment for startups, freelancers, and microenterprises is part of the cluster’s long-term activities.

.

Cooperation with local government is also to be a key element of the Cluster’s operation. Space is planned for the headquarters of municipal institutions responsible for supporting social initiatives and developing dialogue and cooperation with community organizations. In this way, the Cluster space becomes a catalyst for innovative and social activities, strengthening the integration and activity of the local community [5,6,12].

The Zabłocie 20.22 Innovation Cluster represents a unique approach to revitalization by combining social inclusion, creative economy support, and infrastructure renewal within a single initiative. Unlike many Innovation Clusters that primarily focus on technology transfer and economic performance, this case emphasizes civic participation, social entrepreneurship, and the integration of marginalized groups. Its model nature lies in the public-driven process, which emerged from participatory urban planning, rather than being solely a top-down economic policy instrument [10,11,16,17,18,19].

3.3. Legal Aspects of Implementation of Investments Related to Change of Use

When deciding on a change of use of a building object, it is necessary to consider a number of legal regulations that specify the principles of such activities [20]. The basic legal act that regulates all issues related to the reconstruction and change of function of an object is the Construction Law [21], which specifies the procedures for notifying and carrying out a change of use of a building. Within the framework of this law, there are also guidelines on the obligations related to carrying out appropriate technical expertise and meeting fire safety requirements in a building that changes its use character. Another very important document in the context of work related to changing the use of facilities is the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of 12 April 2002, on the technical conditions to which buildings and their location should conform [22]. This document contains detailed requirements for buildings intended for human occupancy, including, among other things, requirements for spaciousness, ventilation, and fire protection, which must be met when changing the function of a building, such as from a warehouse to an office building.

Another important piece of legislation that should be considered when deciding to change the function of a facility is the Law on Spatial Planning and Development of 27 March 2003 [23], as it defines the principles of spatial development, based on the local zoning plan and development conditions. This law provides the basis for deciding on any changes to the architecture of the site, while ensuring that the spatial order and scenic qualities of the location are preserved. In addition, the law takes into account the need to consider the impact of changes on the environment, ensuring that it is protected from the negative effects associated with spatial interference.

In addition to complying with the requirements of the above legislation, it is also necessary to obtain a construction permit or notify of the planned work, depending on the type of planned interference with the structure of the facility. In addition, special attention should be paid to the applicable sanitary and epidemiological regulations contained in the Law of 14 March 1985, on State Sanitary Inspection [24] (Figure 6). This regulates sanitary standards, including the availability of water, sewerage, as well as the provision of adequate hygienic conditions in facilities intended for human habitation, which is necessary for full compliance with the regulations for the change of use of the facility.

Fulfillment of all the listed requirements makes it possible to prepare an application for a building permit for a facility with a planned new function. The adaptation of post-industrial heritage for modern innovation functions has, therefore, brought a range of design and conservation dilemmas. For instance, the need to preserve original facades conflicted with technical requirements for insulation and ventilation. Solutions involved using reversible architectural interventions and internal reinforcement systems.

3.4. Implementation of the Investment Under the Design and Build System

The investment was commissioned at the end of June 2022. The Innovation Cluster was built based on two existing warehouse buildings on Zabłocie Street, adjacent to the railroad tracks. Implementation of the project included comprehensive modernization work, preceded by the development of detailed design documentation and obtaining the necessary administrative permits. The reconstruction of the buildings involved their thorough renovation, during which all elements except the main load-bearing structure were removed. The use of both buildings was changed, introducing a new functional layout of rooms, modern technical installations, and carrying out comprehensive interior finishing. The facades of the buildings were completely renovated, giving them a modern character. The surroundings of the investment were also significantly transformed. A new traffic system was created, and green areas were arranged, which enriched the public space and affected the aesthetics of the entire area.

From the very beginning, the implementation of the project assumed innovation and open space, oriented towards sharing and multifunctionality. This was a special challenge for the implementation team, but the experience and professionalism of the employees made it possible to successfully complete the investment. The investment realized by Mostostal Warszawa is an innovative response to the needs of modern urban communities. The cluster was designed as a multifunctional space, providing technical and organizational conditions for work, study, and leisure. It is a place dedicated to a variety of groups: startups, micro-enterprises, community organizations, creative groups, and residents, as well as people looking for space to develop their passions and initiatives (Figure 7).

3.5. Use of the CDE Cloud Platform for Efficient Management of the Investment Process

In the process of implementing the Zabłocie 20.22 Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster investment (Figure 8), modern technologies were used to manage construction projects, including the common data environment (CDE) platform [17,27,28]. CDE is a cloud-based common data environment that enables central management of project information at all stages of the project [29,30,31,32,33]. Thanks to the use of this solution, it was possible not only to effectively plan and coordinate activities but also to monitor the progress of work on an ongoing basis, which was particularly important in the context of the complex nature of the investment and the numerous stakeholders involved in the project. The contractor, Mostostal Warszawa, used the Dalux platform for this purpose, with which it has already successfully implemented other investments.

The use of CDE platforms in the implementation of investments such as Cluster Zabłocie 20.22 is increasingly seen as a key element of modern construction project management. These platforms act as a central data repository that allows ongoing access to documentation, BIM models, and other design resources for all stakeholders. Thanks to integration with cloud technologies, the CDE environment provides tools for effective planning, coordination, and monitoring of construction progress—these and other functionalities are listed in

Table 2. Comparison of BIM functionalities and the CDE platform on the example of the Innovation Cluster.

Functionality	Description
Project documentation management	The platform enables the central collection, review, and updating of design documentation, which minimizes the risk of working on outdated versions of documents. In the case of the Zabłocie Cluster, design documentation, including plans for the reconstruction of warehouse buildings, was available to all stakeholders in real time, which improved cooperation between the design and executive teams.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)	Integrating BIM technology with the CDE platform allowed for detailed planning and coordination of works. In the case of this investment, the modeling of construction and installation elements (especially due to the implementation system) was crucial, such as the introduction of new technical installations or a new communication system, which made it possible to avoid collisions and errors in implementation.
Communication and team integration	The platform has built-in chats and/or reporting modules, which allow for ongoing problem solving and the integration of design and implementation teams.
Quality management and control of construction documentation	Quality management modules allowed for entering data on implementation in accordance with design assumptions, as well as reporting defects and their repairs. Thanks to this, the implementation team could continuously monitor the quality of execution of individual elements.
Mobile access and site inspections	Dalux offers a mobile application that allows access to design data directly from the construction site. This functionality was particularly useful during construction inspections and real-time progress reporting. Thanks to the ability to mark comments on 3D models and send photos and comments directly from the field, the reporting and communication process between contractors and the investor was significantly improved.

.

While quantitative data comparing the use of CDE platforms with traditional project management methods in similar revitalization projects are currently limited, existing literature highlights the competitive advantage gained by companies adopting such tools. Studies emphasize improvements in collaboration efficiency, error reduction, and construction quality control, especially in complex, multi-stakeholder projects. For example, Kasznia et al. (2024) and Abdullah and Hatem (2023) demonstrate the substantial benefits of CDE adoption in real-world case studies, reinforcing the strategic value of implementing such systems [31,34].

The functionalities of the CDE platform, described in the context of the implementation of the Zabłocie 20.22 Cluster, emphasize the comprehensiveness and versatility of such tools in the management of construction projects (Figure 9). The integration of BIM with the platform seems to be particularly important, as it allows for precise planning and avoiding collisions at the implementation stage. The centralization of documentation is equally important, as it increases transparency and reduces the risk of errors. Mobile access and built-in communication tools are practical solutions that improve cooperation and allow for ongoing problem solving. Nevertheless, it is important to simultaneously develop the skills of construction teams in the use of such platforms, which emphasizes the importance of investing in training [34,35,36,37]. In general, the presented functionalities reflect the potential of digital technologies in the transformation of traditional construction processes. It is worth noting, however, that each of the solutions has its potential advantages and disadvantages, which the authors have listed in

Table 3. Advantages and disadvantages of using the CDE cloud in the discussed investment.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Data centralization and transparency All project data were available in one place, which increased the transparency of the construction process and reduced the risk of errors resulting from working with outdated data.	Implementation costs Using the CDE platform involves additional costs that can be significant for smaller projects.
Process optimization and time savings By automating many processes, such as updating documentation or assigning tasks, the time spent on administration and coordination has been significantly reduced.	Need for staff training The implementation of modern technologies required training the team, which could initially affect the pace of work.
Improved quality of workmanship Quality control functions and the ability to report defects in real time have contributed to raising the standards of investment execution.	Data Security Storing data in the cloud requires ensuring adequate security against potential cyberattacks, which is always a concern for stakeholders.
Increased communication efficiency Built-in communication tools allowed for faster problem solving and better cooperation between all participants in the construction process.
Financial savings Early detection of clashes in the BIM model and minimization of errors resulted in a reduction in costs related to corrections on the construction site.

.

The use of a cloud platform in the implementation of the investment contributed to increasing the efficiency of project management, improving communication, and reducing the risk of errors. The integration of the BIM model with management processes and the use of mobile tools to monitor the progress of work on the construction site enabled the efficient implementation of the investment in a dynamic urban environment. Despite some challenges related to the implementation of the system, the CDE platform turned out to be a key tool supporting the implementation of an innovative revitalization project in Kraków.

4. Difficult Beginnings of Using the Cluster

The experience of implementing the Zabłocie 20.22 Innovation Cluster provides important insights into the governance and activation of innovation-oriented spaces in urban contexts. As previous studies have shown, the success of such initiatives depends not only on infrastructure and financial investment but also on the continuity of institutional commitment, a sense of local community agency, and operational flexibility during implementation [15]. In this light, the challenges encountered during the cluster’s activation phase—such as delays, difficulties in appointing an operator, and limited interest from users—confirm that physical transformation alone is insufficient. Innovation ecosystems require the support of robust social mechanisms and governance models tailored to local conditions.

From a theoretical perspective, the Zabłocie case illustrates how Innovation Clusters embedded in urban regeneration processes can function as hybrid systems, where economic, social, and cultural goals intersect. This approach contributes significantly to the discourse on place-based innovation policies and the role of civic infrastructure in shaping sustainable and inclusive urban development. Future research should explore the potential for adapting this model in other cities undergoing similar post-industrial transitions, particularly in contexts where social cohesion is a key objective of spatial planning.

The implementation of the Zabłocie 20.22 Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster, which cost almost PLN 43 million, was one of the most ambitious investments in Kraków in recent years. Despite the completion of construction and the official opening of the facility in mid-2022, in practice, its full operation encountered difficulties. For over a year after the acceptance, one of the buildings remained practically unused, which resulted from repeated failures to select an operator. However, in the second half of 2023, it was finally possible to develop building A, which had been little used so far.

The revitalization process encountered a series of interconnected challenges. Institutionally, coordination between municipal departments and private-sector organizations proved to be complex, particularly in assigning responsibility for the Cluster’s operational management. Spatially, Zabłocie’s physical structure—with narrow plots, outdated infrastructure, and fragmented ownership—limits the potential for large-scale interventions. Economically, the project had to reconcile budget constraints with the high costs associated with adapting post-industrial buildings. Socially, the integration of diverse groups—from long-term residents to new entrepreneurs—requires ongoing dialogue and the continuous building of trust.

Regarding the prolonged underuse of Building A, observations point to several possible causes. These include a functional mismatch between the facility and the needs of potential operators, infrastructural limitations (e.g., access, ventilation, utilities), and insufficient engagement of the local community in defining the building’s future functions. In response, the municipal administration adjusted its operational strategy, strengthened cooperation with social organizations, and introduced more flexible rental conditions to improve the accessibility and attractiveness of the space.

Currently, according to the opinions of managers and users, the Business Incubator operating within the Zabłocie 20.22 Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster is a space dedicated to people starting their entrepreneurial adventure and young startups. Its main goal is to support the residents of Kraków in the early stages of developing their own business, based on values such as social cooperation and innovation. One of the key advantages of the Incubator is the possibility of exchanging experiences and mutual inspiration within a dynamic community that creates a natural environment conducive to the development of ideas and the implementation of business goals. The variety of activities, from workshops and training to networking events, promotes integration and motivates participants to act.

As Katarzyna Dulińska-Bochonko from the Wytwórnia Association emphasizes: The Entrepreneurship Incubator was launched less than 6 months ago, but we can already say that it was a good idea and a place needed in Krakow. Not only because of the access to co-working and the wide range of the incubation program (...), but above all thanks to the community that we managed to create here (...). Good examples here are the events that we organize, such as Kobiecy Biznes, meetings for Krakow women, initiated by one of our members, the recent Autumn Fair in the Zabłocie Cluster or concerts with an exhibition” 6 December 2024 (https://biznes.lovekrakow.pl/aktualnosci/unikalne-miejsce-dla-wspolpracy-i-rozwoju-klaster-innowacji-spoleczno-gospodarczych-Zabłocie-2022_59389.html, accessed on 22 January 2025).

What is more, the city reminds us that this is the first place where an Entrepreneur Service Point (POP) was created—importantly, the help here is free of charge. You can also use legal advice and support from a Guardian. Another element is the Investor Support and Innovative Economy Center located there, which is intended to support businessmen in developing their business in the province.

Empirical data on the functioning of the cluster can be accessed through the City of Kraków’s open data platform and local press reports. According to recent sources, over 30 startups and 15 social initiatives have been supported since the Cluster’s activation in 2023. Activity indicators such as event frequency, co-working space usage, and survival rate of incubated enterprises are monitored by the Entrepreneurship Department of the Municipality (source: https://biznes.lovekrakow.pl, accessed on 22 January 2025).

The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of research on Innovation Clusters embedded in urban regeneration, particularly within post-industrial and post-socialist contexts. Our analysis aligns with theoretical frameworks that conceptualize clusters not merely as economic engines, but as multidimensional socio-spatial constructs [15,19,38]. The Zabłocie case reinforces the notion that the success of such initiatives depends on governance adaptability, public–private coordination, and meaningful community involvement—factors often underexplored in the mainstream cluster literature. This study also addresses an identified research gap by providing an empirical examination of a localized, socially oriented Innovation Cluster in Central-Eastern Europe. The practical challenges encountered in Zabłocie echo broader patterns observed in comparative research [39], yet the district’s participatory approach and multifunctional programming offer valuable insights for cities facing similar socio-spatial transitions.

From a practical standpoint, the results suggest the need for integrated management models that combine heritage preservation with innovation support and social activation. Future research could expand the analysis through comparative case studies, assessment of the long-term impacts of cluster operations, or investigation of the influence of digital tools—such as common data environment (CDE) platforms—on the coordination of stakeholder collaboration in such initiatives.

5. Summary

The Zabłocie 20.22 Socio-Economic Innovation Cluster is an example of a comprehensive approach to the revitalization of urban space, which combines the adaptation of post-industrial facilities with the creation of modern infrastructure supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and social activity. This process required not only architectural and construction adaptation but also taking into account a wide range of legal and technical requirements. Thanks to the use of advanced technologies, such as the common data environment (CDE) platform, it was possible to effectively manage the project, which translated into its timely implementation and high quality of workmanship.

The creation of the cluster is a response to the needs of the local community, indicated during public consultations, and the challenges related to the transformation of Zabłocie—a district that is a symbol of dynamic change from a post-industrial area to a modern urban space. The implementation of the investment emphasizes the importance of cooperation between local government, social organizations, and the private sector in creating sustainable solutions that support socio-economic development and improve the quality of life of residents [18,40,41].

In various countries around the world, initiatives aimed at the creation and development of Innovation Clusters are being undertaken, and in the majority of cases, they yield tangible success, contributing to the overall competitiveness of national economies [42,43]. For example, in Russia, one of the most pressing challenges is the underutilization of the country’s potential for developing and implementing innovations [43]. This limitation negatively impacts the ability of domestic enterprises to compete in the global market and consequently affects the competitiveness of the national economy. In this context, Innovation Clusters—regarded as the highest form of clustering based on the “triple helix” model of cooperation among government, industry, and science—emerge as effective instruments for stimulating economic growth and technological transformation. Their strength lies primarily in their integrated focus on conducting scientific research, producing innovative products, and training highly qualified personnel. Importantly, the effectiveness of such structures depends not only on internal organization but also on the clear definition of the Cluster’s purpose. As proposed in the analyzed models, the structure of a cluster should be determined by the specific innovation challenge it aims to address, whether in the industrial, scientific, or public sector. By combining social, educational, and business functions, the cluster becomes a place that supports the development of startups and micro-enterprises, as well as civic initiatives and social organizations. It is also an example of activities consistent with the idea of sustainable development, which emphasize social integration, protection of cultural heritage, and technological innovation. The Zabłocie 20.22 cluster is, therefore, not only a revitalized space but also a symbol of a modern approach to urban planning, which combines tradition with the future.

This study contributes to the discussion on Innovation Clusters embedded in urban revitalization processes, particularly in the context of post-industrial areas. The case of Zabłocie 20.22 highlights the importance of hybrid governance models and identifies specific challenges—including the prolonged underuse of Building A, limited public–private cooperation, and functional mismatches—that affect the effectiveness of implementing such initiatives. By introducing methodological transparency and drawing on qualitative sources such as stakeholder interviews and field observations, the analysis demonstrates the potential of using localized empirical cases to enrich the academic literature. In this context, the study confirms the growing importance of digital tools, such as common data environment (CDE) platforms, in coordinating complex construction and revitalization processes. Although this project lacks quantitative data for comparing the use of CDE with traditional approaches, existing literature clearly indicates a significant efficiency advantage associated with the use of digital collaborative environments.