The article examines theoretical approaches to managing agrarian clusters, a pressing task for Ukraine in the context of global competition and the need for innovative development of the agricultural sector. Agrarian clusters are identified as one of the most promising organizational and economic forms, contributing to the strengthening of cooperation, technology transfer, and increased competitiveness. The work aims to generalize and systematize existing theoretical concepts of cluster management and substantiate their practical application in Ukrainian realities. The paper analyzes key approaches to managing cluster formations, specifically systemic, institutional, innovation-network, project-oriented, and agro-ecological approaches. Their comparative characteristics are examined, and the advantages and limitations of each of them are highlighted. Michael Porter's classical cluster theory is studied, noting its fundamental contribution, while also highlighting the need for more attention to agricultural specifics. The primary outcome of the study is the development of an integrative model for agrarian cluster management, tailored to modern Ukrainian conditions. This model combines economic integration, institutional support, information and innovation exchange, and state regulation. It takes into account such challenges as uneven regional development, a lack of special cluster legislation, a low level of trust between agrarians, and the consequences of martial law, particularly the disruption of logistics. The model involves the creation of a strategic cluster center, the involvement of key stakeholders (producers, processors, scientific institutions, and financial institutions), and the establishment of a favorable institutional environment. It is emphasized that for Ukraine, the most appropriate approach is a comprehensive, hybrid one that combines elements of systemic, institutional, network, and project concepts. Effective management of agrarian clusters based on the proposed model can become a key factor in increasing the competitiveness of not only individual enterprises but also entire regions, contributing to the sustainable development of rural areas.
Kaitanskyi et al. (Wed,) studied this question.