Contact: Erik Greenfield, 608-443-1952 (office), 608-669-7884 (cell)
Madison one of four tech hubs included in new Atlantic Council report on innovation economy
MADISON – Today the Atlantic Council released a new report, “Keeping America’s Innovative Edge,” that provides a strategic framework for reinvigorating innovation in America and includes policy recommendations that cover subjects such as research and development, skills training, education and city planning. Madison was one of four U.S. “tech hubs” – along with Boulder/Denver, Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area – featured in the report, and Chamber board member Aaron Olver, Managing Director of University Research Park, was part of the expert panel at the event launching the report.
In response, Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce President Zach Brandon released the following statement:
“To be one of just four tech hubs profiled in this report is a tremendous validation of the progress the Greater Madison region is making toward being recognized as a place of industry and innovation. As the report states, place matters, and with the right tools, investment and intentional action, Greater Madison is well-positioned for continued growth and recognition.
“While the report includes many encouraging signs for Greater Madison’s economy, there are cautionary notes as well, particularly when it comes to a long-term decline in government-funded university research. This report highlights the critical impact that research has on our innovation economy and serves as another warning lawmakers must heed about the direct correlation between public investment in universities and economic growth.
“UW-Madison is a world-class research institution that supplies the state with skilled talent and technology transfer into the marketplace, but that reputation and associated output cannot be taken for granted. To maintain our global competitive edge, it is imperative for state and federal policymakers to reverse the trend in declining research funding.”
You can read the full report here.
About the Atlantic Council:
The Atlantic Council promotes constructive leadership and engagement in international affairs based on the Atlantic Community’s central role in meeting global challenges. The Council provides an essential forum for navigating the dramatic economic and political changes defining the twenty-first century by informing and galvanizing its uniquely influential network of global leaders. Through the papers we write, the ideas we generate, and the communities we build, the Council shapes policy choices and strategies to create a more secure and prosperous world. Learn more at http://www.atlanticcouncil.org/.
About the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business with nearly 1,300 organizations – ranging from one-person shops to corporations with more than 10,000 employees – working to bring the Greater Madison area to its full potential. The Greater Madison region is a leader in innovation. From cutting-edge technologies to distinctive retail shops to inventive services and products, our members vary greatly but are united by the region’s entrepreneurial spirit. More information can be found at greatermadisonchamber.com.
