A high-level group of leaders from Maryland business, education, research and technology launched an effort on April 26, 2006, to make the state more technologically competitive and grow its high-tech economy. The effort is believed to be one of the first nationwide to focus on developing a grassroots response to federal competitiveness initiatives.

"Other states are watching to see how much 'electricity' we can generate in Maryland with this effort," says University of Maryland President C.D. Mote Jr., who along with 19 major organizations in the state convened a summit today in College Park. They met to plot actions that will improve K-12 math and science education, train and recruit the best scientists and engineers and foster more high-tech industry in the state. "Our goal is to jump-start grassroots action. Many initiatives will have to start at the federal level, but a key to success is buy-in from states and local communities. If we can get grassroots traction, at least a half-dozen other states will sit-up and play catch-up." >>...MORE