Innovation and Entrepreneurship Day

WHEREAS, "renewal," defined by innovation and entrepreneurship-driven activities, is a key component of Accelerate Alabama, a strategic plan for economic development in the State of Alabama; and

WHEREAS, Alabama is home to three research parks, seven leading research universities, a leading contract research organization and a world-class genomics research institute; and

WHEREAS, Alabama boasts a superior network of business incubators, including Innovation Depot, named the 2011 Dinah Adkins Technology Incubator of the Year by the National Business Incubation Association; and

WHEREAS, the Alabama SBDC Network provides business counseling and educational training for small businesses at 12 Small Business Development Centers across the state; and

WHEREAS, vibrant networks such as Alabama’s angel and venture communities, and other organizations support new business starts; and

WHEREAS, licensing activity by Alabama Universities from 2000 to 2010 has grown exponentially; and

WHEREAS, the number of Small Business Innovation Research monies awarded in Alabama has increased exponentially; and

WHEREAS, the number of individuals working for the themselves in Alabama has exceeded the national growth rate; and

WHEREAS, Alabama per capita personal income is increasing at a faster rate than the national average, driven by non-employer firms; and

WHEREAS, the Alabama Launchpad program along with the Alabama Research Alliance has awarded $875,000 to Alabama start-ups:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim September 23, 2011, as

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Day

in the State of the Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 19th day of September 2011.

                                                                                 ___Governor Robert Bentley