Battelle CEO Says Region is Poised to Play Significant Role in National Innovation Strategy

According to Battelle CEO Jeff Wadsworth, Central Ohio has all the fundamentals in place to make other noteworthy research clusters (Silicon Valley, the Research Triangle and the Route 128 circle around Boston) begin to look over their shoulders at the region’s emergence as a center of innovation. Wadsworth, delivering the James F. Patterson Land-Grant University Lecture, said there are many similarities among preeminent innovation clusters.  These include the presence of a great university, significant research institutions, a highly educated work force, the availability of venture capital and an entrepreneurial culture.

Considering Central Ohio has all of these qualities, as well as the nation’s best zoo, best science center, Chemical Abstracts Services and a host of top-tier businesses, Wadsworth said the region is poised to play a much stronger role in national innovation and serve as an even stronger economic engine for the entire Midwest. 

“Our ability to successfully resolve challenges including energy, healthcare, national security and education depends on innovation and on the strength and productivity of our economy,” said Wadsworth. 
Wadsworth cited a number of partnerships, such as those between The Ohio State University and Battelle, that have helped advance the region’s position.  In particular he called attention to work developing the Research and Technology Corridor, the founding of TechColumbus and the joint Ohio Bioproducts Innovation Center – collaborations that have already led to a multitude of new products and businesses that benefit the Central Ohio economy. 

For more, see the story in the OSU faculty magazine, OnCampus