Colorado ranked among top 10 states to thrive in STEM-based economy

Tuesday October 20, 2015 0 comments Tags: U.S. Chamber Foundat, STEM, Gov. John Hickenloop, Kelly Brough, Denver Metro Chamber, COIN, Advanced Industries

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Colorado has been ranked among the top states in the nation best poised to thrive in the rapidly evolving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) focused economy.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation  study ranked the top states in categories of economic performance, transportation and trade, innovation and entrepreneurship, business climate, talent pipeline and high-tech performance.

The study ranked Colorado fourth in the nation for both high-tech performance and innovation and entrepreneurship; fifth for overall economic performance; and eighth in the talent pipeline category.

The study said Gov. John Hickenlooper’s vision to build an entrepreneurial ecosystem is being realized through programs that encourage startups and foster innovation.

The Colorado Innovation Network (COIN), launched by Hickenlooper in 2011, is becoming a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, the study noted.

The study also noted Colorado’s sponsorship of the Advanced Industries Accelerator Grant program, which helps drive innovation, accelerates commercialization, encourages public-private partnerships and increases access to capital and enhances the state’s global competitiveness.

The report said for Colorado to continue to succeed, it needs a combination of policies and actions to spark growth across a larger spectrum of industries not necessarily associated with the mainstay tech economy.

“It’s no secret that Colorado is home to one of the smartest and healthiest workforces in the country,” said Kelly Brough, president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.

“We’re proud of the collaborative, innovative spirit that has made us a hub for entrepreneurship and technology.”