A strong commitment to innovation by Valley business, government, education and civic leaders will be required. Some innovative opportunities can be identified. Our research has identified opportunities in a number areas Flexible food manufacturing Advanced food and fiber technologies Irrigation technology Smart commerce and customer services Advanced logistics Agile manufacturing Each opportunity will require focused action by industry, government leaders and civic leaders. Each opportunity needs a leadership network to help make the right connections both within the emerging industry cluster and with universities, local governments, training institutions. In short, the secret to success for an innovative region is collaboration.
Innovation is about overcoming conventional wisdom.
Can leadership for an innovative economy be recruited, networks built around opportunities and social innovations be taken to promote a successful future for the region. These are the key questions that we need to consider. My answer is yes.