NHBRC
11/16/06
Saying "companies that innovate create jobs and stay ahead in the global economy," Governor John Lynch today unveiled two new innovation initiatives at the Governor and Executive Council Chambers.

CONCORD - Saying "companies that innovate create jobs and stay ahead in the global economy," Governor John Lynch today unveiled two new innovation initiatives at the Governor and Executive Council Chambers.

The New Hampshire Business Resource Center and the New Hampshire High Technology Council will join forces to create "Tech Tour 2007", a unique partnership between the business community, the state, the High Technology Council and education. Beginning in early 2007, volunteer companies recruited by the High Technology Council and the Business Resource Center will visit high school classes where they will demonstrate their New Hampshire made products and share their expertise with students.

"Hands-on, experiential learning excites students to learn more about technology and to pursue high-tech careers," Governor Lynch said. "Our business leaders recognize the need to build a skilled future workforce and are committed to providing our students with the tools and knowledge they need to further New Hampshire's reputation as a state that embraces innovation and creativity."

"The High Technology Council is thrilled to be able to partner with the Business Resource Center on this vital initiative," added High Technology Council President Fred Kocher. "The ever changing economy of the 21st Century demands highly skilled and qualified workers and there is no better way to build that workforce than by getting students excited about pursuing high tech careers."

Governor Lynch also announced the creation of "Innovation Rocks!", a partnership between the Business Resource Center and Rock 101 WGIR FM to celebrate the outstanding achievements of technology companies. Winners, who will be solicited and selected by the Business Resource Center, must have designed and implemented a significant innovation that has had a positive impact on the New Hampshire economy. They will receive on-air mentions on Rock 101, a special section on the state's nheconomy.com website where the company's innovation can be shared as a best practice model, and a commendation from the Governor's office.

"This is an excellent way to reward those exemplary companies which add so much value to the state's economy," said New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner George Bald. "We salute Rock 101 for their partnership and are very eager to begin receiving submissions from potential nominees."

At the press conference, Governor Lynch announced that the inaugural winner of the "Innovation Rocks!" Award is MobileRobots, Inc., an Amherst-based global leader in the robotics industry. In addition to having thousands of robots in use on six continents, the company was a driving force in "Robotics Week," a Business Resource Center hosted series of events which demonstrated the potential of robotics to different industry sectors including hospitality, public safety and healthcare. The company has also signed on to provide the first "Tech Tour 2007" visit to Pembroke Academy in January.