Stating the case for tech - Of Interest - Milken Institute report - Editorial - Brief Article

Electronic News, Sept 23, 2002 by Heidi Elliott

A REPORT FROM THE MILKEN INSTITUTE released last week found that the fates of regional economies rest on their investment in science and technology. The report said investing in science and technology--from higher education to industry research and development--is strongly linked to the success of a state's economy. The report ranks Massachusetts, Colorado and California, respectively, as the states in the best position to succeed.

"The demise of far-fetched Internet businesses hardly refutes the fact that new technology is changing the rules in many sectors of the economy," the report stated. "Science, technology and knowledge-driven innovation are critical to job and wealth creation in the new economics of place."

The report, commissioned by Tech Ventures Network and the California Technology Trade and Commerce Division of Science Technology and Innovation, found a strong link between science and technology investment and personal income gains, plus overall state economic growth. More than 75 percent of personal income growth can be tied to increases in technology output, researchers found.

RELATED ARTICLE: Top 10 Science & Technology States Index:

1. Massachusetts

2. Colorado

3. California

4. Maryland

5. Virginia

6. Washington

7. New Jersey

8. Connecticut

9. Utah

10. Minnesota