Minnesota continues to grab attention for the growth of its science and technology economy.  At the end of last year, the Milken Institute ranked the state 7th in its State Science and Technology Index.  Some of the reasons why will be on display next month when MHTA hosts Tech.2017 at the Metropolitan Ballroom in Golden Valley.

“This year we’ll dig into that index, show where our state excels and find ways to tackle the areas where it doesn’t,” said Andrew Wittenborg, MHTA’s director of outreach.  “Our Tech event is really a chance to see some of the companies and the people behind Minnesota’s emerging strengths.”

Tech.2017 will highlight how Minnesota entrepreneurs have taken ideas and not only turned them into a business but also become industry leaders.  Pat Dillon, the director of MHTA’s new SBIR program, will focus on how tech transfer and federal innovation grants have helped breakthroughs become realities.  Her panel will include printing innovation leader Chromatic 3D Materials and how Adventium Labs is solving tough issues in the areas of cyber security, system engineering, and automated reasoning.

Mobile is another area where Minnesota is recognized for leadership.  It’s moved from a hot trend to an essential strategy for companies driving new business and hiring key talent.  Tech.2017 will highlight how mobilized applications can drive competitive advantages.

Mobile Composer and its partners will demonstrate how context aware applications can drive better and faster decisions whether it’s an employee closing a sale to helping a customer with a purchase or service issue,” said Wittenborg.

Tech.2017 will also highlight strengths and gaps in Minnesota’s science and technology workforce and community efforts underway to boost support for the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Registration is now open for the event which begins with breakfast Thursday, February 23rd at the Metropolitan in Golden Valley.  A full list of speakers will be announced in the next two weeks.  You can learn more about speaking opportunities and sponsorship by contacting Andrew Wittenborg or Steve Burk.