NSF convenes the first-ever 'ROADMAP Summit' with EDA to connect innovation ecosystem teams from across the nation
On Dec. 3-4, the U.S. National Science Foundation in collaboration with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) hosted the "ROADMAP Summit," a first-ever national convening on place-based innovation, economic development and U.S. technological competitiveness. Teams leading the historic place-based innovation investments supported by the federal government gathered to discuss how to bolster U.S. competitiveness in science and technology, including by catalyzing breakthroughs and creating new pathways for all Americans to access good-quality, high-wage jobs. The event was filled with inspirational discussions, new collaborations and relationships, and a shared vision for the future of U.S. science, technology and production. During more than 20 plenary session presentations, panel discussions, and fireside chats, thought leaders from across government, media and industry shared their perspectives on the state of U.S. economic competitiveness.
The U.S. has made historic investments in place-based innovation at a scale not seen since the height of the Cold War. NSF, EDA and its partners launched this convening to bring together the communities and regions across the country leveraging these investments, share emerging best practices and lessons learned and continue to forge a path to a new and thriving frontier of American innovation.
More than 250 leaders from more than 120 emerging and growing technology clusters and innovation ecosystems participated in 22 workshops and networking sessions during the two-day event held in Washington, D.C.
Nearly 600 people attended the summit, including technology and innovation leaders, industry and government officials, current and former elected officials, capital providers, journalists and other stakeholders. Participants took part in inspirational discussions, built new connections and learned about the shared vision for the future of U.S. science, technology and production.
From a universal tissue bioreactor to next-generation battery electrodes that enhance battery performance while significantly reducing production costs, the exhibits in ROADMAP's interactive demonstration hall showcased cutting-edge technology emerging from new and growing innovation ecosystems nationwide.
To learn more about NSF's historic place-based investments via the NSF Regional Innovation Engines program, please visit the NSF Engines portfolio or further explore the NSF Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships' initiatives.