W.Va. innovation awards program established
W.Va. innovation awards program established
CHARLESTON — TechConnectWV, an organization devoted to advancing West Virginia’s high-tech economy, has established a new awards program.
Intended to celebrate leadership in innovation and technology-based business development, the awards program is accepting nominations of individuals, organizations, companies and teams through Aug. 30.
“We have so many exciting things going on in our state’s innovation and technology economy — things many West Virginians don’t know about,” Anne Barth, executive director of TechConnect WV, said in a news release. 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 created the greatest impact on technology
Investor of the Year: An individual, organization or collaboration that has improved access to capital to help foster innovation
Outstanding Woman in Technology: A woman who has demonstrated a commitment and dedication to innovation
Preference will be given to nominations related to the four technology platforms targeted by TechConnectWV — advanced energy; chemicals and advanced materials; biotechnology; and biometrics and identity management.
The awards will be presented at a banquet on Oct. 22 at the Waterfront Place Hotel in Morgantown.
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 anne@techconnectwv.org or 304-444-2918.