Value-added and technology commercialization task force delivers report
Edmonton... A Value-Added and Technology Commercialization Report recently delivered to Advanced Education and Technology Minister Doug Horner will help the government determine immediate and long-term actions to enhance Alberta's ability to create, grow and sustain globally competitive and innovative knowledge intensive companies.
"Alberta is committed to expanding and diversifying our economy and this report proposes a critical framework to help us achieve that goal," said Horner. "I thank the task force members and those who have contributed to the province's previous high-tech industry consultations. Their work has produced exciting ideas that could benefit today's Albertans and future generations by helping build the next generation economy, which will lead to new wealth and job opportunities."
The seven task force members reviewed and evaluated more than 40 written submissions from industry, academia, and other interest groups. These dedicated Albertans also studied past consultations on technology commercialization and the value-added strategy with an aim to build on the province's solid base of technology commercialization agencies and programs already in place. Their work has led to seven recommendations that fall within three action items:
- building an effective capital market;
- assisting growth of innovative firms; and
- encouraging and rewarding entrepreneurship.
"Many Alberta entrepreneurs have the drive and focus to be successful. They just need a supportive environment in which to convert their innovative ideas into marketable new products and services - our task force report recommends how Alberta can create this environment." said David Martin, chair of the Value-Added and Technology Commercialization Task Force and executive chairman of SMART Technologies Inc.
The Value-Added and Technology Commercialization Task Force was established on March 26 as one of the key actions under Premier Ed Stelmach's plan to build a stronger Alberta. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, improve Albertans' quality of life and promote safe and secure communities.
The task force report is available on the Advanced Education and Technology website at www.advancededandtech.gov.ab.ca.
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