TEDCO provided an overview of signature funding programs to an Iraqi delegation of eight country leaders, including university professors and government officials
Baltimore, Md., (Oct. 12, 2011) – Today, leaders from the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) met with eight Iraqi government officials from the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Science and Technology to share insight on its technology transfer programs and proven business models at the Emerging Technology Centers (ETC) in Baltimore. The Iraqi delegation, assembled by the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) at the U.S. Department of Commerce and Iraq’s Inter-Ministerial Committee on Science and Technology, is on a three-week consultation to learn about innovation systems in the U.S. and how to establish similar funding programs in Iraq. Maryland is one of three stops on the Iraqi delegation’s U.S. visit and TEDCO was selected by the U.S. Department of Commerce, CLDP as a standout technology and economic development organization.
“As Iraq builds its science and technology infrastructure, much emphasis is being placed on creating university-based incubators for new technology firms,” said Rob Rosenbaum, president and executive director of TEDCO. “We take great pride in the delegation’s interest in emulating TEDCO’s business model as a means to invigorate the country’s economy. Through today’s meeting, we hope to enrich members of this delegation with valuable insight into creating their own technology transfer programs.”
During the presentation, TEDCO staff provided examples of signature funding programs, including the established University Technology Development Fund (UTDF). UTDF is a funding program that assists Maryland universities in transferring technologies into commercial projects. CLDP anticipates the delegation’s visit will equip Iraqi leaders with the knowledge and skills required to coordinate university resources, support local industry and improve productivity while developing new technologies.
Prior to today’s consultation, CLDP engaged with the delegation through in-country workshops and seminars on research parks and university-based incubators. Each delegate is committed to invigorating Iraq’s reputation for scientific excellence as a source of job creation and economic diversification. Along with TEDCO, CLDP has engaged regional and international partners for the consultation, such as the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the University of Wisconsin – Madison, the Georgia Institute of Technology Advanced Technology Development Center, and the World Bank.
For more information on TEDCO funding programs, visit www.marylandtedco.org.