Stacy Cobb Director, Internal Audit | North Carolina Department of Commerce
Stacy Cobb Director, Internal Audit | North Carolina Department of Commerce
The N.C. Board of Science, Technology, and Innovation has released a new report designed to support technology coalitions in North Carolina. The "N.C. Coalitions Strategic Support and Resource Guide" offers guidance on optimizing organizational structures, funding strategies, and methods for attracting investment to stimulate economic growth. The publication was supported by N.C. Commerce’s Office of Science, Technology, and Innovation (OSTI).
Technology coalitions, which may be referred to as Hubs, Industry Alliances, Partnerships, or Clusters, are becoming increasingly important for pooling resources and expertise from industry members to achieve shared goals. Mature coalitions with a strong potential for economic impact are more likely to attract capital.
“The outstanding universities and technology companies across North Carolina make us a national leader in innovation and technology,” said N.C. Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Helping these organizations form technology-driven coalitions is critical to positioning NC for more partnerships and solidifying our status as a global competitor in emerging technology sectors.”
Recent federal investments have significantly advanced the state's technological landscape. A textile technology coalition led by Morganton-based Industrial Commons received up to $160 million over ten years from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) as part of the Regional Innovation Engine initiative. Similarly, the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine was awarded funding under the same program for its Piedmont Triad Regenerative Medicine Engine.
These awards highlight the importance of strong industry relationships through public-private partnerships that unite various stakeholders around common goals.
The guide provides insights into successful coalition models across North Carolina and offers recommendations for achieving growth and securing support necessary for strengthening regional industries. It details state-supported resources available through OSTI and outlines collaboration opportunities with OSTI to tailor support according to coalition needs.
Funding for this guide came from the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management’s State Technical Assistance and Match Program (STAMP), enabling state agencies to apply for technical assistance funds like those provided under the CHIPS & Science Act.
"OSBM is excited to enhance OSTI's capacity and expertise in building this coalition guide,” said OSBM Federal Funds Analyst Jonathan Meyer. “This resource will activate transformative investment under the CHIPS and Science Act and future funding opportunities."
Alerts Sign-up