incubators

Highlighting survey data collected in 2001, the National Business Incubation Association report shows that 950 business incubation programs were operating in North America in 2001, up from 587 in 1998. Incubators assisted more than 35,000 start-up companies that provided full-time employment for nearly 82,000 workers, generating $7 billion in annual earnings.

The Maryland Technology Development Corp. and the Maryland Business Incubation Association study measures the economic impact of Marylands six public- and university-related high-tech business incubators on the states economy. The study suggests that the states successful technology incubators not only complement its federal research labs and facilities but are vital to ongoing and future formations of technology clusters throughout the states regions.

According to the report, the nation and Ninth District have seen strong growth in incubators over the last two decades. Most are nonprofit or quasi-public and typically receive some government assistance along the way. In 1980, the Nationa Business Incubation Association counted only 12 incubators in the nation; today there are more than 900.

The San Diego Regional Technology Alliances report suggests Technology Innovation Centers, defined broadly to include incubators, business support programs and web services, direct providers and facilitators/gatekeepers, can be successful instruments for technology-based economic development if done properly. The report also provides public and private organizations with key tools for getting their technology innovation center off to the right start.