Innovation Research Initiatives

The Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Washington Economic Development Commission administer two innovation research initiatives created by the state Legislature in 2007: Innovation Partnership Zones and Strategically Targeted Innovation Research Teams (STARS).

Innovation Partnership Zones
An Innovation Partnership Zone (IPZ) is a unique economic development effort that partners university research, workforce training, and private sector participation in a specific geographic area. The purpose is to promote collaborative research-based effort that will lead to new technologies, marketable products, company formation, and job creation. There are currently 12 IPZs operating in the state of Washington. More information on Innovation Partnership Zones can be found on the WEDC website.

STARS Researchers
To complement this effort, the state provides funding to assist in the recruitment of leading researchers to the University of Washington and Washington State University, researchers who form Innovation Research Teams. More information on the STARS program, including the quarter STARS newsletter, can be found at the WEDC's website. 
 

Related Reports
Innovation Partnership Zone Summary-Washington Economic Development Commission