Dupage Policy Journal

U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-Dist. 14) recently played a prominent role in including the Regional Innovation Program in an appropriations bill introduced in the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies.

The program would support regional innovation ecosystems across the country, including Illinois, which connect researchers with the necessary skills and networks to bring innovative technologies to the market. This allows the private sector to create jobs and facilitate technology commercialization.

“When regions specialize in particular high-growth industries, aiding cooperation between firms, researchers and institutions accelerates innovation, job growth, the formation and expansion of businesses, work-force training and small-business development in those fields," Hultgren said. "These efforts also ensure the American people derive the greatest benefit from research investments throughout the government. Better coordination among new and existing technology clusters — like the aerospace program in Rockford, Illinois — can help local participants share best practices, mentor each other and accelerate the transfer of technology from concept to market."