Tuesday, April 27, 2004
A year ago, Governor Rendell proposed his vision of establishing innovation zones around the state's coolleges and universities. Today, he accepted the first application for such a zone from Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster.
The idea makes sense. Keystone Innovation Zones (KIZs) are designed to create "knowledge neighborhoods" close to colleges, universities and research institutions. KIZ status allows eligible companies located within the zone to apply for a pool of $25 million in tax credits. Franklin & Marshal College can also apply for $10 million in Innovation Grants to be used to start a tech-transfer program.
Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
Pennsylvania starts Keystone Innovation Zone initiative
