Press Release

Residents of Pittsburg to Benefit from U.S. EDA Investment in Local Tech-based Development

June 18, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

State Science and Technology Institute Conference to Build on Collaborative Relationship to Boost Innovation

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $25,000 grant to the State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to implement SSTI's Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The conference will provide a collaborative environment for leaders to discuss the development of strategies to advance tech-based economic development.

"Innovation and entrepreneurship are top priorities for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John Fernandez. "This EDA grant will support a conference that will bring together industry, academia, and the public sector to support the creation of technology companies and investment in the technology industry."

The conference will highlight the importance of investing in technology-based economic development, showcase best practices and lessons learned, and foster discussion and planning to improve innovation strategies; encouraging economic transformation through science, innovation, technology, commercialization and entrepreneurship.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.