State research and development budgets were challenged last year by
an international recession but as I look across the nation, a handful of
innovation-based state agencies continue to make progress even in
difficult times. The Oklahoma
Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology is one of
those.
OCAST has a robust pipeline of programs that includes applied research, health research, small-business innovation research (SBIR), research and development intern partnerships, nanotechnology, plant research, manufacturing excellence and technology commercialization. This pipeline is vital to the infrastructure that can help transform a state’s economy.
So, what are the attributes of a nationally recognized innovation-based
economic development model? My answer is one that has a sustained
history of success; bipartisan support from the governor and
legislature; involvement from the private sector; a focus on return on
investment; and accountability to the legislature, taxpayers and
administration.
Through its programs and services, OCAST helps build Oklahoma’s
research and innovation capacity that will advance society, invent
products, diversify rural and urban economies, and discover medical
breakthroughs that will save millions of lives and improve our quality
of life.
By any measure, OCAST is competitive with the best innovation-based
models. Its rigorous peer review process guarantees the best science and
technology projects are funded. OCAST has consistently delivered value
in terms of return on taxpayer-invested dollars, overall economic
impact, jobs created, and increase in per capita income.
In 2006 and 2009, two major national innovation conferences were held in
Oklahoma — the State Science and Technology Institute and the National
Association of Seed and Venture Funds. As a founding board member
of both of these associations, I can say there is no doubt that the
national reputation of OCAST and its nationally acclaimed strategic
partner, i2E, were a driving force in the decision to hold these
conferences in Oklahoma
City.
Not only is OCAST recognized nationally as world-class model for helping
Oklahoma diversify and grow its economy and create high-skill and
high-wage jobs, but also Oklahoma is a recognized leader in state
policies that provide the enabling foundation for a sustainable
innovation ecosystem. In addition to OCAST, Oklahoma created EDGE
(Economic Development Generating Excellence) — a bold state-funded
research endowment fund. Currently at $150 million, the goal is to grow
the fund to $1 billion to help transform the state’s knowledge
infrastructure.
OCAST is uniquely positioned to help drive Oklahoma’s continuing journey
into science and technology innovations. My message is to embrace
innovation and support the time-tested strategies developed at OCAST —
future generations of Oklahomans will be the beneficiaries.
Bendis is founding president and CEO of Philadelphia-based Innovation
America ( www.innovationamerica.us).
To read the full, original article click on this link: OCAST positioned to bring innovation | NewsOK.com
Author: Richard Bendis
