by Tony Grindberg
September, 2003
Dear Stakeholders,
This month the annual conference of the Association of University Research Parks will meet in Vancouver, British Columbia. The theme of this year's conference is "Innovating Globally." As I reviewed the agenda and thought about the accomplishments NDSU is achieving and the progress of our research park, I thought what an appropriate theme for us here at NDSU and North Dakota.
Senator Byron Dorgan's vision for a North Dakota Research Corridor and the opportunity for university partnerships with private partnerships has attracted a lot of attention regionally, nationally and internationally. The future looks very bright for our state as leaders continue develop strategies for economic growth through North Dakota's higher education system.
The announcement of Alien Technology Corporation of Morgan Hill, Calif., in July has demonstrated and strengthened a "New Path" for economic growth in North Dakota through university led research and development. Governor John Hoeven's "Smart Growth" initiative announced in December of 2002 provided state funding for a "Centers of Excellence" program that will leverage federal and private investment to stimulate North Dakota's economy. The 2003 legislature endorsed the program and funded six centers of which three are located at North Dakota State University. This program is intended to expand research and stimulate job growth in the State.
Alien Technology's decision to locate a research and manufacturing facility in North Dakota demonstrates that private investment does follow knowledge, quality research and a productive workforce. A strategy to position NDSU and North Dakota as the world leader in RFID technology will be a key long term growth strategy for the next 10 to 15 years. I encourage you to learn more about Alien Technology's "smart-tag" technology and radio frequency identification (RFID) by reviewing www.alientechnology.com and www.rfidjournal.com.
The research park's vision continues to serve as a catalyst for scientific and technological discoveries that enhance North Dakota's economy. Listed below are a few of our accomplishments so far in 2003.
- Assisted with North Dakota's proposal for the Alien Technology Co.
- Awarded a $1,250,000 state grant to construct a Center for Technology Enterprise to expand entrepreneurship
- Completed feasibility report and business plan for the business and technology incubator
- The first high-tech start up business begins in park-Appareo Systems, LLC
- Acquired 15 additional acres of land for the park totaling 55 acres
- 5:01 Entrepreneur Society sets future events (See website for dates and locations)
Please review our newsletter and website and let us know what you think. Your thoughts and suggestions are important for us to create strong partnerships into the future.
Tony Grindberg
Executive Director
tony@ndsuresearchpark.com
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