Selected options for federal support of state and local technology development programs

In an attempt to foster regional economic growth, many State and local governments have developed and are supporting programs to enhance technological advancement within their jurisdictions. These programs are based upon the idea that economic benefits accrue from the creation of new firms and from increases in productivity in existing companies through the application of technological products and processes. These efforts very by State and often a jurisdiction supports several different approaches. Several Federal programs and policies have facilitated State and local technological development activities. These include programs to strengthen the science and technology capabilities of State governments, to encourage industry-university cooperation, to expand the use of Federal technical resources, and to strengthen the research capacity of universities. There is congressional interest in exploring ways to augment Federal support for State and local technological advancement efforts. Various options are identified to assist Members in determining if future congressional action is necessary, and if so, what types of activities might build upon an infrastructure already in place.