NorTech wins SSTI Innovation Award for Cluster Work – “NorTech, a regional nonprofit technology-based economic development organization serving 21 counties in Northeast Ohio, has tested its cluster model on two industry clusters – advanced energy and flexible electronics.” NorTech connects cluster members to resources and helps them commercialize their products, locate investors, access government funding, and form strategic partnerships. Its cluster approach in advanced energy and flexible electronics has supported companies that have attracted $20.5 million in capital, created 171 jobs and generated $10.8 million in payroll in Ohio over a one year period starting in July of 2010.

You can find out more about NorTech by clicking <here>.

Renewable Energy/Clean Technology Supply Chain Pre‑Assessment Program (pdf) – This study by Kansas State University’s Advanced Manufacturing Institute  assists the south central Kansas region in developing a better understanding of the interest, capabilities and capacity of regional manufacturing companies in terms of their readiness to pursuerenewable energy markets (wind, solar and biomass). The purpose of the study was to provide business development pre-assessments to manufacturing companies seeking to 1) increase their connectedness to emerging renewable energy markets, 2) improve their operations and 3) increase their competitive advantage.

(Image via KSU Advanced Manufacturing Institute)

Seven States Selected to Develop Economic Strategies Focused on the Growth of Advanced Manufacturing Industries – The National Governors Association selected seven states to participate in the Policy Academy on “Making” our Future.   “A Policy Academy is a highly interactive, team-based process for helping a select number of states develop and implement an action plan to address a complex public policy issue. Participating states receive guidance and technical assistance from NGA staff, experts from MEP, EDA and State Science and Technology Institute, as well as consultants from the private sector, research organizations and academia. The strategies and policies developed by the selected states are intended to serve as ideas and best practices for all states.”

(Image Source: National Governors Association)