November event to celebrate successes in technology innovation
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An organization devoted to advancing West Virginia’s high-tech economy has announced an awards program to celebrate contributions to technology innovation in the state.
According to TechConnectWV Executive Director Anne Barth, the group’s new Spirit of Innovation Awards will recognize leadership in innovation and technology-based business development.
“We have so many exciting things going on in our state’s innovation and technology economy—things many West Virginians don’t know about,” said Barth. “The goal of the Spirit of Innovation Awards competition is to highlight some of these success stories and perhaps inspire others who have an entrepreneurial spirit.”
Barth says the competition is open to individuals, organizations, companies and teams. Individuals nominated must be West Virginia residents or full-time students in the state. Companies and organizations must be based in West Virginia.
Awards will be made in the following categories:
Innovator of the Year – An inventor or researcher (academic or non-academic) whose work has created the greatest impact on technology in the state
StartUp Innovation of the Year – An innovation from a university technology transfer office or from a private company that has been in business less than five years or had sales for less than three years
Student Innovator of the Year – A student inventor or researcher who demonstrates innovative characteristics and whose work has generated the greatest impact on technology
Entrepreneurial Support of the Year – An individual or entity that has provided outstanding professional assistance to startup companies and entrepreneurs launching new innovation-focused businesses.
Outstanding Woman in Technology – A woman who has demonstrated a commitment and dedication to innovation
Barth added that preference will be given to nominations related to the four technology platforms targeted by TechConnectWV, including advanced energy; chemicals and advanced materials; biotechnology; and biometrics and identity management.
Nominations must be received by 11:59 pm on Aug. 31. The awards will be presented at an event on November 16 at the Culture Center in Charleston.
For more information about the TechConnectWV Spirit of West Virginia awards or to download a nomination form, visit www.techconnectwv.org. For sponsorship information, contact Barth at [email protected] or (304) 444-2918.
TechConnectWV is a non-profit coalition committed to the advancement of the innovation economy in West Virginia, focused on four technology sectors: advanced energy; chemicals and advanced materials; biotechnology; and biometrics and identity management. With broad representation from private industry, the public sector and higher education, TechConnectWV seeks to diversify the state’s economy, promote economic prosperity and create high-paying jobs.