WV Executive

TechConnect WV event to focus on building blocks for creating growth, jobs and economic diversity

TechConnect West Virginia (www.techconnectwv.org), in partnership with Verizon WV, Marshall University and West Virginia University, will bring together policy and opinion leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs, economic developers and others to discuss and develop strategies for growing our state's technology economy. Featured speakers include Dr. James P. Clements, President of West Virginia University, and Dr. Stephen J. Kopp, President of Marshall University.

The event will be held from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 7, 2010, at Foundation Hall on the campus of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

“West Virginia has the potential to significantly grow its technology economy, and in doing so, create jobs and economic diversity for state residents,” said Kevin DiGregorio, Executive Director of TechConnect West Virginia. “The purpose of this event is to inform state leaders on what is taking place across the state in this sector and to identify what needs to be done to spur growth.”

DiGregorio said the event will feature presentations by the presidents of both Marshall University and West Virginia University on the role of universities as the foundation for technology growth in their state. Paul Hill, Vice Chancellor for Science & Research with the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, will speak to the need for facilities in the tech field and specifically discuss the WV Education, Research & Technology Park in South Charleston. Additionally, panel segments, featuring experts and technology business owners from around the state, will focus on access to capital, entrepreneurial assistance and entrepreneurial talent. The panels will be moderated by Kelley Goes, Secretary of the WV Division of Commerce, and John Golden, Director of External Affairs for Verizon WV.

Media are encouraged to attend.

TechConnect West Virginia is a 501(c)3 non-profit coalition of public and private partners dedicated to growing and diversifying West Virginia’s economy by boosting the state’s technology economy. The organization serves as a forum and facilitator to spur collaboration within West Virginia’s technology community, bringing the assets of statewide entities to the table to spur technology commercialization and stimulate the creation of tech-based companies and jobs. The organization is a partner of Vision Shared.

For additional information, contact Kevin DiGregorio at (304) 437-4295, or visit the organization’s website at www.techconnectwv.org.