and research capabilities to fit the needs of the robust sectors of our region’s economy. ■ Improve our capability to deploy teams for cuttingedge research, development and commercialization involving the region’s research and training centers, technology innovators, investors, national laboratories, and federal agencies and research centers. ■ Raise the national and international profile of the region as a tech-based research, business and career center by implementing outreach initiatives that tell the compelling story of our strong and vibrant economy. A goal should be to create partnerships with science and technology hubs in other countries. ■ Put the integrated funding and programs in place to invest in research, development, demonstration and commercialization activities that will foster new ideas, generate start-up companies and help existing companies to expand. Ohio’s Third Frontier initiative is an example to be considered in this regard. Created in 2002, the Ohio Third Frontier is an unprecedented commitment to create new technology-based products, companies, industries and jobs. The $2.3 billion initiative provides funding for open innovation, entrepreneurial support, value chain development and expansion of a skilled talent pool that can support technology-based economic growth. The Ohio Third Frontier’s strategic intent is to cre-
ate an “innovation ecosystem” that supports the efficient and seamless transition of great ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace. The research corridor, along with North Dakota’s Centers of Excellence program and the state’s longstanding commitment to higher education have positioned North Dakota as a leader in research and development and created a business environment that is highly conducive to starting and building a technology company. By taking these steps we can build on the proven capabilities of our universities, colleges and the strong “brand power” of the research corridor to foster more innovation and investment. This will create new opportunities that will benefit all sectors of the economy and people in every corner of the region. PB Delore Zimmerman President, Praxis Strategy Group Executive Director, Red River Valley Research Corridor 701-330-6802, delore@praxissg.com
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