New bill would encourage high-tech growth

SYRACUSE — New legislation pushed by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand aims to encourage the growth of high-tech jobs across the country.

Gillibrand announced the America Innovates Act during a stop at the Syracuse Center of Excellence yesterday.

“New York is home to some of the world’s brightest minds and best ideas to grow our economy,” Gillibrand said in a news release. “This common-sense legislation will help develop scientific breakthroughs into cutting edge businesses and new jobs. Providing our scientists and students with practical business skills will go a long way towards creating high-tech industries and building the next generation of innovative leaders. This is the future of our economy, and we need to make sure it starts right here in Central New York.”

The bill would establish an American Innovation Bank that would help universities and other research institutions launch and grow the development and commercialization of initial discoveries. The money would help universities with “proof of concept” funds, which help researchers prove their work can be practically used, according to Gillibrand’s office.

The bill would also provide business training for graduate students in science, intellectual property protection, commercialization, and product development.

“University research is largely untapped,” said Mary Ann Tyszko, vice president for strategic business development and innovation at Syracuse University. “Having an ecosystem that maximizes the ability to leverage university research to produce marketable products and companies can have the biggest single positive impact on our economy, locally and nationally.

“Funds for training, proof of concept, and commercialization are exactly what is needed to foster an innovation economy and grow jobs.”

Contact Tampone at ktampone@cnybj.com