SSTI's 2024 Annual Conference

Whether one calls them transformational or disruptive, challenging or exciting, topics like generative AI, Big Tech, climate change, and geopolitical/economic issues will have significant influences on the future focus and efforts of every SSTI conference attendee. At this session, we will engage in one of the most important conversations on the future of regional innovation policy and practice. Rob Atkinson, president and founder of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), and Deborah Cummings, principal and managing director of TEConomy Partners LLC, will explore the conclusions drawn and implications of a select group of “myths” included in Rob’s newest book, Technology Fears and Scapegoats: 40 Myths about Privacy, Jobs, AI, and Today’s Innovation Economy. Rob and Deb’s conversation will consider the potential impact of generative AI, climate change, and Big Tech and what it all means for regional economies and the TBED practice. Our conversation will advance the discussion of what the policy and practice of local technology-based economic development must look like given the technological and geopolitical issues already shaping our future.

Note: All paid conference registrants will be given a copy of Technology Fears and Scapegoats for deeper exploration after this once-in-a-career, not-to-be-missed event.

The days of going it alone to grow your regional innovation economy are numbered—and for maximizing your impact and value, that isn't a bad thing. Creating and sustaining truly collaborative teams that can win significant funding from various sources requires talents, techniques, and tradeoffs that we'll explore with the leaders of a select group of people who put together those teams or are managing them now that they are underway.

* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

We may not be able to show you the money, but we'll put you in the room with some of the top federal programs that have it for our community—and want to give it away. Sit down for a one-on-one conversation with federal agency funders who will give you the low-down on funding opportunities for your TBED community. You can schedule appointments throughout the day with representatives from the agencies most vital to your funding strategies. With a chance for direct engagement with the right people, you'll leave this session smarter for your next proposal writing effort. You can also catch 15-minute presentations from each agency, which will be scheduled throughout the day.

Agencies in attendance and their presentation time slots are forthcoming.


* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

Public-private partnerships (P3s) are becoming increasingly vital for driving next-generation innovations across all sectors. This session moves beyond the hype to showcase real-world examples of successful community-centered P3s. We'll explore compelling case studies and delve into how these collaborative efforts between governments, civic organizations, and private enterprises are transforming industries and communities to deliver groundbreaking solutions. Discover how P3s can unlock new levels of innovation and create sustained impact for all communities.

Description forthcoming.

This peer-to-peer discussion will provide frank, valuable insights for everyone interested in leveraging the best practices and adaptations these hubs are implementing to boost regional innovation and economic resilience: We'll talk about: how these areas continue to drive regional economic growth by retaining graduates, attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering new industries an an ever-changing development landscape.

* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

This peer-driven roundtable is an invite-only opportunity for leaders at venture development organizations—publicly backed nonprofit and state entities that provide capital, business, and technology assistance with an economic development focus—to candidly discuss issues facing their organizations, best practices, and program management. Topics could include VDO organization, structure, management, capital formation, and investment.

Thriving startup ecosystems don't happen by accident. Join efactory and the Southern Missouri Innovation Network as they share strategies for supporting regional entrepreneurial communities. Learn how to prepare local startups for funding rounds and create an environment where innovation flourishes. Whether you're just starting to build your regional ecosystem or looking to take it to the next level, you'll come away with fresh ideas to enhance your community's entrepreneurial landscape.

* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

We may not be able to show you the money, but we'll put you in the room with some of the top federal programs that have it for our community -- and want to give it away. With a chance for direct engagement with the right people, you'll leave this session smarter for your next proposal writing effort.

* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

What’s the secret to measuring success? This session will explore cutting-edge techniques that unleash the power of your data and help quantify impacts, share captivating success stories, and ignite transformative growth. Engage with experts in the field to enhance your understanding of the most important metrics delivering meaningful change in support of regional innovation.

* This session is supported by the TBED Community of Practice. See https://ssti.org/tbedcop for more information.

As the setting for much of the country's STEM talent development and research activity, higher education institutions play a unique role in the broader tech-based economic development field. During this session, we'll discuss what policy and regulatory topics are of the greatest interest to universities over the next several years.

This peer-driven roundtable is an invite-only opportunity for leaders at venture development organizations—publicly backed nonprofit and state entities that provide capital, business, and technology assistance with an economic development focus—to candidly discuss issues facing their organizations, best practices, and program management. Topics could include VDO organization, structure, management, capital formation, and investment.