21st Century Research Parks: Fueling the Future of Innovation

Newswise — Innovation fuels the future of our economy—and our nation's university research and science parks are where this innovation is happening.

Executives from university research parks around the world will gather at Association of University Research Parks Annual Meeting--scheduled in St. Petersburg, Florida Dec.10-12.

More than 30 national and international experts in economic and research park development will illuminate the current situation including:➢ Matthew Crow of the U.S. Economic Development Administration, producer of EDA's nationally televised program "Economic Development Today."➢ John Adams of Enterprise Florida, which diversifies Florida's economy by creating businesses in innovative high-growth industries.➢ Brian Darmody of the University of Maryland, speaking on "The Power of Place" " a strategy to create American Innovation Zones to keep our nation technologically competitive.➢ David Day of the University of Florida and the Sid Martin Biotechnology Development Incubator, a dynamic speaker with his finger on the pulse of Florida's technology future.

The AURP Annual Meeting provides a global perspective from experts in the field, plus a focus on innovation at Florida's many research and science parks, including the University of South Florida Research Park, host of the conference.

The Meeting will be held at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg. For details " or to register online " visit http://www.aurp.net.

Given today's economic turmoil, global competition, and new U.S. presidential administration, timely insights and current network connections are vital. The AURP conference is open to all who envision creating communities of innovation " from architects, land developers and venture capitalists to university researchers, private sector partners, park directors, incubation executives, and governmental representatives.

The mission of AURP is to promote the development and operations of research parks that foster innovation, commercialization and economic competitiveness in a global economy through collaboration among universities, industries and government.