IEDC Names Chief Innovation Officer
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Economic Development Corp. has appointed a new chief innovation officer. In the role, Ian Steff will oversee the development of the state’s innovation and entrepreneurial sectors, as part of the $1 billion initiative to boost innovation and entrepreneurship announced by Governor Mike Pence last month.
Steff has previously served as a science and technology adviser for the IEDC and has helped expand the state’s public-private partnerships. The IEDC says he will continue that work in addition to supporting more applied research at universities throughout the state, expanding opportunities for small businesses and accelerating investments in early-stage, mid-market and high-growth companies.
"I am indeed humbled to help implement Governor Pence’s bold and exciting $1 billion innovation and entrepreneurial vision – a vision that reaffirms Indiana’s steadfast commitment to consciously choosing to compete nationwide and globally for ideas, talent and investment," said Steff. "As I look around the state, I see hardworking Hoosiers solving billion dollar challenges every day. This plan ensures that Indiana’s current and future innovators – who are second to none – have the tools they need to create high-paying jobs in our state for years to come."
The IEDC says Steff has also led Indiana’s participation in various initiatives, including the Battery Innovation Center, the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation and Purdue University’s new Indiana Manufacturing Institute.
Pence detailed his plan last month at the Innovation Showcase in Speedway. He said the 10-year investment aims to support government, education and research institution efforts to promote, create and grow innovation throughout Indiana.