2009 IEDC Technology-Led Economic Development Conference and IASP World Conference on Science and Technology Parks

June 1-4
Raleigh Convention Center
Raleigh, NC

Future Knowledge Ecosystems
The opportunity for science and technology parks, places and partners.

IEDC is partnering with the Research Triangle Park in Raleigh, NC and the International Association of Science Parks (IASP) based in Malaga, Spain to present the 2009 World Conference on Science and Technology Parks. This conference will serve as IEDC’s 2009 Spring Conference.

• About the Conference • A Unique Opportunity for Economic Developers • Registration and Accommodations • IEDC Professional Development at the Conference • Exhibitor and Sponsorship Information

About the Conference

The 2009 World Conference on Science and Technology Parks is a major worldwide event where professionals meet, exchange knowledge and information, establish alliances and develop new joint projects. Held in the United States for the first time, this international event, entitled Future Knowledge Ecosystems, will focus on how regions and communities can create systems of innovation that drive economic growth. Three full days of discussions will focus on the latest trends in technology-led economic development and will emphasize how to strengthen and leverage the assets of science and technology parks, universities, and entrepreneurs.

A Unique Opportunity for Economic Developers

Through our partnership, IEDC is bringing a unique conference opportunity to all economic development professionals. Beyond the day-to-day challenges of business retention attraction, and expansion, every economic developer now needs to have innovation, technology and competitiveness on his or her radar screen. Attend the 2009 World Conference on Science and Technology Parks, and take back to your community a greater understanding of the how technology and innovation will serve as the future engine of economic growth.

Global best practices and topics of specific interest to economic developers will include:

• How to foster and then commercialize innovation
• What types of partnerships best support innovation development and commercialization
• Methods for attracting and retaining a talented workforce
• Making the connection to entrepreneurs, university and r&d operations
• Stimulating entrepreneurship and breaking down the barriers
• How changing land use patterns are affecting innovation development
• The growing importance of green and sustainable practices to technology-led development, companies and competitive places
• Regional competitiveness and characteristics of competitive places
• What IASP’s futures map reveals – what to anticipate and how to prepare for the evolution of technology and innovation

This year’s conference is expected to draw over 1,100 participants from over 70 countries, including economic developers, science park managers and other practitioners involved in technology-based economic development. Take advantage of this opportunity to build your international network – a critical element to your ability to support your community in a global economy!

Registration and Accommodations

IEDC members receive the IASP Affiliate Rate of $630 if registering before March 31, 2009. Learn more and register at the conference's registration page.

The headquarters hotel for the conference will be:

Raleigh Marriott City Center
Single/Double Rooms available from June 1-5, 2009
Room rate: Starts at $124 per night
Special rate ends May 2, 2009
Website: cwp.marriott.com/rdumc/iasp/

Visit the conference's accommodations page for more information on hotels, the Raleigh Convention Center, and the surrounding region.

IEDC Professional Development at the Conference

IEDC will have two professional development opportunities in conjunction with the conference:

• Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development Strategies training course (May 31-June1)
• Certified Economic Developer Exam (May 31-June 1; Application deadline: March 30, 2009)

Exhibitor and Sponsorship Information

• Download the conference sponsorship packet (186 Kb PDF)
• Download the conference exhibitor packet (2.6 Mb PDF)

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• Economic Development Credit Analysis
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• Economic Development Strategic Planning
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