Killer Innovations: reblog

Hawaii governor Linda Lingle announced a sweeping new innovation initiative for the state. The broad-based initiative is intended as a way to increase the state's participation in the technology-driven global economy. Among other things, the new innovation initiative includes:

* State support for a life sciences and biotech research facility and technology incubator;

* A digital media center for the development of a local film and digital media sector

* A new program to build the technical and business skills of Hawaii's artists in the music industry;

* A $100 million professionally-managed Hawaii Innovation Fund.

In addition, Hawaii will upgrade its wireless and broadband Internet services and engage in a comprehensive new digitization program. As Governor Lingle points out, innovation is now an important driver of economic competitiveness for the state:

"Hawaii's continued prosperity and ability to improve our standard of living and way of life over the long-term requires reducing our dependence on land as the chief driver of economic development. We need to focus on developing our people, recognizing that our future economic success and sustainability depends upon innovation and new ideas that will enable us to create more high-paying quality jobs that capitalize on people's skills and talents."

[image: Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle]