Commerce names three IPZs to foster economic growth

“Washington is known worldwide for its innovation, research and development, and bold new ideas,” said Commerce Director Brian Bonlender. “The 18 IPZs located throughout the state create a collaborative, results-oriented environment for incubating start-ups, developing critical training programs and leveraging best practices to spur innovation and economic growth through new discoveries, technologies, products and services.”

“The diversity of our regions is an important competitive advantage for Washington State,” said Governor Jay Inslee. “Our Innovation Partnership Zones are a shining example of innovation in action statewide; creating unique partnerships between the public and private sectors to build a Working Washington that leverages our regional expertise and drives economic growth and vitality at the local level.”

New IPZ Designations:

* Willapa Resource Utilization and Renewal (Port of Willapa Harbor)·        

* Skagit Valley Value-Added Agriculture IPZ

* Applied Digital Technology Accelerator (Vancouver-Camas)

Re-Designations:

IPZs are designated for four-year terms. The following IPZ designated in 2009 retained its status:

* Central Washington Resource Energy Collaborative (Kittitas)

Governor Gregoire and the Washington State Legislature created the Innovation Partnership Zones program in 2007. Its goal is to stimulate the growth of industry clusters and build regional economies.  IPZs empower regions to form partnerships between research entities, private sector partners, and workforce training to collaborate and develop commercially viable technologies. To learn more about Innovation Partnership Zones, visit www.choosewashington.com.